ABSTRACT

To successfully implement any mechanistic pavement design procedure, and to move toward performance-based specifications, it is essential to develop tools that can measure the modulus of each layer in a pavement structure. The main objective of this paper is to summarize a new initiative for mechanistic-based quality control using seismic techniques. Field protocols and test equipment, which in a rational manner combine the results from laboratory and field tests with those used for quality control during construction, are discussed. The institutional and technical challenges are also detailed. Case studies are included to show how the protocol is implemented to harmonize the activities of the design group with those from the materials lab personnel and with the construction engineer.