Evaluation of Emerging Laboratory Equipment and Test Procedures

Budget: $500,000-$800,000

Sponsors:

National Ready Mixed Concrete Association
American Concrete Pavement Association
Portland Cement Association

Performing Organization:

National Stone, Sand, and Gravel Association
Federal Highway Administration
Midwest Concrete Consortium (MCC)
National Concrete Pavement Technology Center

Description: This project calls for the evaluation of two important tests currently under development: the calorimetry heat signature equipment and procedures being developed by ISU, and the coefficient of thermal expansion equipment being developed by FHWA. Under this project, potential users will be introduced to the equipment in detail, review the new test protocols, evaluate loan equipment, conduct precision/bias studies, etc., to better understand these tools' capabilities and interpret their data. The project will also develop a comprehensive approach to moving them towards common use and adoption. For example, information about these tools will be included in the Mixture Testing and Analysis Manual and related training (see no. 5, below) to help users understand their relevance in mix design and analysis. Eventually, the equipment and test protocols will be considered for AASHTO standards.