This study evaluated the properties of two high-performance concrete paving projects in Virginia. These continuously reinforced concrete pavements were placed on State Route 288 near Richmond and on the U.S. 29 Madison Heights Bypass in Lynchburg; a minimum flexural strength of 650 psi at 28 days was required for each. In an attempt to control cracking, reduced shrinkage was sought through the use of large maximum size well-graded aggregates and proper curing. The results showed that satisfactory strengths can be obtained at 28 days. Concretes with the lowest water content had the lowest shrinkage, as expected. For desired performance, good construction practices including a level base, correct steel placement, proper consolidation, timely texturing, and effective curing are required. Although pavement designs are based on flexural strength, compressive strength tests are more convenient and less variable than are flexural strength tests. Therefore, a correlation was established between flexural and compressive strength, and acceptance of the pavements was based on compressive strength.
Abstract