摘要: |
The purpose of this research was to develop approaches for (1) specifying compaction of embankments and subgrades and (2) providing VDOT with assurance that compaction quality is being achieved. Specifications and quality assurance are related, and both items must be considered when developing new specifications. Specific objectives included the following: eevelop a suite of approaches that may be applicable to different types and sizes of construction projects, considering VDOT's staffing limitations; provide an example of the reliability calculations that would be required of a design-build team working under performance specifications; assess the approaches based on information in the published literature and discussions with VDOT personnel, VTRC personnel, and outside experts on compaction and performance specifications; and make recommendations to VDOT for compaction specifications and quality assurance. The scope of this research was limited to conducting a literature review, developing approaches for compaction specifications and quality assurance, performing reliability calculations, discussing the approaches with knowledgeable experts, assessing the approaches for their applicability to VDOT projects, and making recommendations considering the risks and benefits of the various approaches. This research is policy oriented, and a qualitative risk-benefit analysis is provided, but a quantitative cost-benefit analysis is not possible under the present state of knowledge. |