1600469 - Analysis of Full-Depth Reclamation Sections in Georgia

Abstract: Full Depth Reclamation (FDR) with cement stabilization is a cost-effective pavement rehabilitation strategy. The resulting pavement with a cement-stabilized layer exhibits characteristics of a semi-rigid pavement. Despite the widespread adoption of the mechanistic-empirical pavement design guide (MEPDG) by U.S. state highway agencies, specific local calibration coefficients for semi-rigid pavements are yet to be established. Therefore, state and local highway agencies continue to rely on the empirical method for designing pavements with FDR. This paper aims to evaluate the mechanical properties of the stabilized base and validate input values for pavement design. Falling weight deflectometer testing was conducted at four Georgia sites, and field cores were collected to evaluate the mechanical properties of various stabilized reclaimed bases. The structural layer coefficients computed from modulus and Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) correlations show a decreasing trend with age. However, the prediction gaps for the structural layer coefficients widen as the pavement ages.