Transportation Engineering Research Papers
	Transportation Facilities -- topics covered in this section include: micromechanical modeling, concrete pavement stress fracture, flexible airport pavement modeling, pavement/railroad-track deformation modeling, etc.
	Transportation Systems -- topics covered in this section include: optimization of traffic flow modeling, high-speed passenger train at-grade crossings research, signalized intersection studies, multilevel analysis of highway accidents, etc.

C.P.L. Barkan

Association of American Railroads

E. J. Barenberg

Association of American Railroads, jointly with Massachusetts Institute of Technology

E. J. Barenberg, Y. Bao

Association of American Railroads

E. J. Barenberg, M. I. Darter

University of Illinois

E. J. Barenberg, D. Lang, N. Hawkins, J. Roesler

University of Illinois

E. J. Barenberg, M. R. Thompson, E. Tutumluer, L. Haussmann, B. Heil, N. Garg, H. Ceylan, U. Seyhan

FAA Center of Excellence

W. G. Buttlar, G. Al-Khateeb

University of Illinois Research Board

W. G. Buttlar, D. Bozkurt

IDOT - Illinois Transportation Research Center

W. G. Buttlar, M. Harrell

IDOT - Illinois Cooperative Highway and Transportation Research Program

Micromechanical Analysis of Asphalt-Filler Mastics

W. G. Buttlar, A. Waldhoff, D. Bozkurt, G. Al-Khateeb

SHRP Asphalt Testing for Performance-Related Specifications

S. H. Carpenter, M. Abdelrahman, M. Gemmel

Illinois Department of Transportation, IHR-424

Characterization of Asphalt Concrete for Airport Pavement Design

S. H. Carpenter, M. Jansen, T. Zehr, K. Ghuzlan, J. Malella

Development of a Self-Contained Portable Device for SHRP Binder Testing -- Field QC/QA Testing with the Duomorph

S. H. Carpenter, J. Mallela

National Highway Cooperative Research Program

Rehabilitation of Asphalt-Overlaid Concrete Pavements (AC/PCC)

M. I. Darter, S. H. Carpenter, K. T. Hall

Illinois Department of Transportation, IHR-532; U.S. Department of Transportation

Support under Portland Cement Concrete Pavements

M. I. Darter, B. J. Dempsey, K. T. Hall, S. H. Carpenter, C. M. Kuo

National Cooperative Highway Research Program, Project 1-30; Transportation Research Board

Strategic Information Management Methodology for State Highway Departments

M. I. Darter, J. P. Hall

University of Illinois

Implementation of the Illinois Pavement Management Database (IPFS)

M. I. Darter, K. T. Hall, Y. Lu, C. Wilson, N. Gharaibeh

Illinois Department of Transportation, IHR-529; U.S. Department of Transportation

New Railroad Ties and Products from Recycled Wood Ties and Plastics

B. J. Dempsey,* E.J. Barenberg, * S. M. Durian

Office of Solid Waste Research and Association of American Railroads

Rail Buckling Detection Utilizing Fiber Optic Sensing Technology

B. J. Dempsey,* E. J. Barenberg,* J. M. Signore

Association of American Railroads

Center of Excellence for Airport Pavement Research

B. J. Dempsey, * Director, E. J. Barenberg, * Associate Director, M. R. Thompson, * Associate Director

Federal Aviation Administration

VFR Lighted Flyway Marker for the TCA Environment

B. J. Dempsey,* T. L. Hashbarger

Illinois Transportation Research Center

Excogitated Composite Multifunctional (ECM) Layer for Pavement Systems

B. J. Dempsey,* P. Hongschaovalit

National Cooperative Highway Research Program, IDEA Program

Interlayer Stress Absorbing Composite (ISAC) for Mitigating Reflection Cracking in Asphalt Concrete Overlays

B. J. Dempsey,* M. T. Mukhtar

Illinois Department of Transportation, IHR-533

Accelerated Testing of Separation Layers for Open-Graded Drainage Layers

B. J. Dempsey,* J. M. Signore

IDOT-Illinois Transportation Research Center

Load Transfer Between Slabs in PCC Pavements

N. M. Hawkins, E. J. Barenberg, D. A. Lange, M. Abdul-Maksous, S. Wattar, M. Gamel

FAA Center of Excellence

Highway Problems-Illinois Cooperative Highway and Transportation Research Program

M. R. Thompson*

Illinois Department of Transportation, IHR-2

Mechanistic Design Implementation and Monitoring

M. R. Thompson,* E. J. Barenberg,* T. Mack, B.Wente, T. Powers

Illinois Department of Transportation, IHR-524

Cooperative Evaluation of Minnesota Road Test Results to Illinois Conditions

M. R. Thompson,* E. J. Barenberg, J. Roesler, N. Garg, C. Alvarez, M. Bajarano

Illinois Department of Transportation, IHR-535

Evaluation of Potential Applications of End-Result and Performance-Related Specifications

M. R. Thompson, * S. H. Carpenter,* M. I. Darter, * D. Lange,* A. Patel, N. Gharaibeh

Illinois Department of Transportation, IHR-425

Concepts and Practices for Considering General Aviation (GA) Airport Pavement Performance and Longevity

M. R. Thompson,* B. J. Dempsey,* E. J. Barenberg,* T. VanDam, C. Alvarez

IDOT - Illinois Transportation Research Center

Subgrade Evaluation for Airport Pavement Design

M. R. Thompson, E. Tutumluer, M. Bejarano

FAA Center of Excellence for Airport Pavement Research

Stabilized Base Materials

M. R. Thompson,* F. Young,* D. Lange,* C. Borgerk

FAA Center of excellence for Airport Pavement Research

Structural Evaluation of Unbound Aggregate Bases to Support the 2002 AASHTO Design Guide Development

E. Tutumluer, F.-J. ChouAggregates Foundation for Technology, Research, and Education

Laboratory Determination of Anisotropic Properties of Granular Materials

E. Tutumluer, U. SeyhanUniversity of Illinois

Laboratory Evaluation of Anisotropic Properties of Fiber Stabilized Sands

E. Tutumluer, U. Seyhan, I.-T. Kim

Video Analysis of Aggregates

E. Tutumluer, C. Rao, J. StefanskiFederal Highway Administration

Affiliated Laboratory for Railroad Engineering

C.P.L. BarkanAssociation of American RailroadsThe AAR Affiliated Laboratory Program is intended to (1) attract faculty and students to work in areas of interest to the railroad engineering profession; (2) assist the railroad industry in the solution of technical problems related to the railroad operation and related industries; (3) develop a pool of experts familiar with railroad engineering problems and assist the industry in the solution of their problems; and (4) develop courses and research programs to entice highly qualified students to work and study in areas related to railroad engineering. Most of these objectives will be accomplished by expanded programs of research on engineering problems related to the railroad industry.Funding for the laboratory is under three categories; general, core, and project. General category funds are used for program coordination and administration plus any research activities elected by the program director. Core projects are selected by a technical advisory committee and projects are funded by the various divisions of AAR as funds permit.In 1999, this program supported a number of projects conducted by faculty in the Departments of Civil Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, and Theoretical and Applied Mechanics.A summary of previous projects along with their principal investigators and disciplines are given below.

• Improved Track Structure Design, E. J. Barenberg and B. J. Dempsey, Civil Engineering. New and Emerging Technologies for the Railroad Industry, E. J. Barenberg, Civil Engineering (joint effort with MIT) Fatigue Life of Wood Ties, P. Chow, Wood Science, Forestry. Neural Network Applications for Bearing Flaw Detection, Rail Flaw Detection, and Wheel Flaw Detection, G. Ghaboussi, Civil Engineering. Field Studies of Railroad Bridges, D. Foutch, Civil Engineering (jointly funded by NSF). Use of Fiber Optics in Railroad Engineering, B. J. Dempsey, Civil Engineering. Temperature Distribution in Failure of Roller Bearings in Railcars, T. F. Conry, General Engineering, and C. Cusano, Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. Field Welding of Rails, F. V. Lawrence, Jr., Civil Engineering. Developing New Materials for the Railroad Industry, B. J. Dempsey, Civil Engineering. Improving Railroad Signals, J. T. Verdeyen, Electrical and Computer Engineering. Shear and Static Bending Stress of Railroad Bridge Timbers, P. Chow, Wood Science, Forestry. Use of Fiber Optics and Smart Structures for Railroads, S. Chuang, Electrical and computer Engineering. Lateral Stability and Buckling of Rails, E. Barenberg, Civil Engineering.
• Alternative Methods for Power Distribution to Railcars, R. Buchanan, Electrical and Computer Engineering.

New and Emerging Technologies for the Railroad Industry

E. J. BarenbergAssociation of American Railroads, jointly with Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyNew and emerging technologies are being developed in areas other than railroad-related industries. This study is to identify these technologies and the relevant railroad industry problems. Implications of the technology to the railroad industry and requirements for implementation are addressed.

Crack Propagation and Failure of Plain and Fibrous Concrete under Repeated Loading

E. J. Barenberg, D. Lange , N. Hawkins , J. RoeslerUniversity of IllinoisFatigue behavior of plain and fibrous concrete is being investigated. Special attention is given to crack propagation under repeated loading and how the cracks propagate in different types of specimens under different loading conditions. Effect of specimen size is one of the aspects under investigation.

Investigation of D-Cracking of Concrete Pavements at Willard Airport

E. J. Barenberg, M. I. Darter University of IllinoisD-cracking of concrete pavements at Willard Airport is being investigated. Rate of development, extent, and methods for mitigation are being investigated. Both laboratory and field testing are being used to evaluate the alternate repair methods and procedures for mitigating propagation of D-cracking.

Lateral Stability and Buckling of Rails

E. Barenberg, Y. BaoAssociation of American RailroadsContinuously welded rails are used to eliminate the maintenance problems caused by joints in rails. If the rails are welded at too high a temperature, the rails tend to pull apart at low temperatures. Conversely, if the rails are welded at too low a temperature, they tend to buckle or "sun-kink" at times of high temperature. This study examines the factors which influence the buckling temperature, and ways to reduce the tendency to buckle. A track buckling model called "ILLIBUCKLE" has been developed using the finite elements in ABAQUS. This model is being used to evaluate procedures for increasing lateral track stability. For tracks with a high degree of curvature, the track may not buckle per se, but may move laterally during times of high or low temperature. Ways to anchor the track against lateral movement are being evaluated.

Potential Applications of End-Result and Performance-Related Specification for Asphalt Pavements

W.G. Buttlar, M. Harrell

IDOT - Illinois Cooperative Highway and Transportation Research Program

A pilot field study is currently underway, where a severely-distressed, continuously-reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP) is being rehabilitated using innovative pavement rubblization and quality control/quality assurance (QC/QA) techniques. The project is located on I-57 in Edgewood, Illinois, and features a quality control/quality assurance (QC/QA) program utilizing cutting-edge QC/QA devices, such as the SUPERPAVE gyratory compactor and the National Center for Asphalt Technology's (NCAT) ignition oven. A prototype percent-within-limits-based end-result specification for asphalt pavement construction is being developed in coordination with IDOT. A demonstration project to illustrate the new specification is being planned for the upcoming construction season. Also under investigation in this research area is the evaluation of a non-nuclear density gage for quality control of asphalt pavement construction. The gage is being used alongside the currently approved nuclear density gage in the field to evaluate its potential as a rapid, non-nuclear alternative to current methods.

Development of a Hollow-Cylinder Tensile Tester for Asphalt Mixtures

W.G. Buttlar, G. Al-KhateebUniversity of Illinois Research BoardThe Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) was a fifty-million dollar research effort that led to the development of performance-based tests and prediction models for the design of asphaltic paving mixtures. However, there are many obstacles standing in the path of full implementation of the new methodologies, particularly the cost and complexity of the new test devices. A Hollow-Cylinder Tensile Test device is being developed to serve as a low-cost, easy-to-operate test device for the control of low-temperature cracking of asphalt pavements. Viscoelastic and fracture-related properties of standard laboratory cylinders will be determined at low temperatures using the new device.

Evaluation of Reflective Crack Control Policy

W.G. Buttlar, D. BozkurtIDOT - Illinois Transportation Research CenterReflective cracking in asphaltic pavement overlays is a widespread and costly phenomenon caused by movements of cracks and joints in original, overlain pavement layers. Current IDOT policy allows a choice among three reflective crack control treatments, each designed to retard reflective cracking by restricting movements at joints and cracks and/or providing base isolation. While the currently allowed treatments are thought to delay the initial appearance of reflective cracks, the cost-effectiveness of these systems has never been investigated. This study seeks to determine the cost-effectiveness of the reflective crack control systems used in Illinois by examining the life cycle costs and performance benefits of a number of overlay projects constructed in Illinois, both with and without crack control treatments. Forensic investigation of the residual waterproofing benefits of paving fabrics after reflective cracks have appeared is being conducted using a custom made constant head permeameter.

Micromechanical Analysis of Asphalt-Filler Mastics

W.G. Buttlar, A. Waldhoff, D. Bozkurt, G. Al-KhateebThe stiffening effects of mineral fillers combined with asphalt binders are being studied using micromechanical models for particulate composites. Theoretical results are being compared to mastic properties, as measured using the Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) and Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR). The intent of the work is two-fold: 1) to evaluate the applicability of particulate micromechanics models to predict mastic stiffness, and; 2) to use the models to evaluate and quantify physico-chemical stiffening effects, which are influenced by various material properties such as particle size and distribution, and surface charge.

SHRP Asphalt Testing for Performance-Related Specifications

S. H. Carpenter, M. Abdelrahman, M. GemmelIllinois Department of Transportation, IHR-424The Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) has developed a new sequence of tests and specifications for asphalt cements and mixes to enhance the ability of specifications to provide a level of service in the constructed pavement. These new procedures require the use of new equipment and methods not normally used in the transportation industry. The objectives of this study are to install the new equipment, perform shakedown testing to establish operational characteristics, and then perform characterization testing of typical Illinois materials. This will include evaluating the suitability of asphalt cements currently available to determine if modification will be required to satisfy the new SHRP specifications for the Illinois climate.

Development of a Self-contained Portable Device for SHRP Binder Testing -- Field QC/QA Testing with the Duomorph

S. H. Carpenter, J. MallelaNational Highway Cooperative Research ProgramThe new Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) equipment and processing procedures for asphalt cement specifications are expensive, time consuming, and cannot be used for field acceptance testing of asphalt binder deliveries. The duomorph is a peizoelectric disk assembly that induces precisely controlled deformations into a surrounding medium, and senses the resistance to these deformations, allowing the dynamic properties of the viscoelastic medium to be determined. This project will assemble the necessary piezoelectric sensors and signal-generating and recording equipment to document the capabilities of the duomorph to function as a SHRP asphalt binder test device. The duomorph can potentially replace the three mechanically complex SHRP test devices, providing dynamic and creep testing at all temperatures, while at the same time providing testing capabilities for a broader range of materials in a more durable low-cost device. p

Implementation of the Illinois Pavement Management Database (IPFS)

M. I. Darter, K. T. Hall, Y. Lu, C. Wilson, N. GharaibehIllinois Department of Transportation, IHR-529; U.S. Department of TransportationEfficient management of the 1700 miles of Illinois interstate highway system by the Illinois DOT requires feedback of important performance data. This project involves the development of a comprehensive database and management system for these pavements. This year's work continued the development of network-level analysis techniques, the determination of benefits from improved network management, development of ILLINET software in Windows, and development of graphical user-oriented interfaces.

Strategic Information Management Methodology for State Highway Departments

M. I. Darter, J. P. HallUniversity of IllinoisFor state departments of transportation (DOTs), information is a critical component in decision making at all organizational levels. Information is a strategic resource that can be used to improve operational efficiencies for the benefit of the traveling public. This project involves the development of a methodology to identify, prioritize, and access the strategic information required in such DOT activities as pavement management, bridge management, project management, safety management, and executive information systems. The goal is to promote efficient development and use of information systems and information processing technologies.

Rehabilitation of Asphalt-Overlaid Concrete Pavements (AC/PCC)

M. I. Darter, S. H. Carpenter, K. T. HallIllinois Department of Transportation, IHR-532; U.S. Department of TransportationMore than half of Illinois' 1700 miles of concrete interstate highways have been overlaid with asphalt, and nearly all will be overlaid within 10 years. AC/PCC is perhaps the most difficult type of pavement to correctly evaluate and rehabilitate. This project has analyzed the performance of AC/PCC pavements, developed detailed guidelines and procedures for AC/PCC evaluation and rehabilitation, and demonstrated the procedures on in-service pavements. The guidelines address selection of rehabilitation projects, distress surveying, destructive and nondestructive testing, structural analysis, rehabilitation strategy selection, and second overlay design.

Support under Portland Cement Concrete Pavements

M. I. Darter, B. J. Dempsey, K. T. Hall, S. H. Carpenter, C. M. KuoNational Cooperative Highway Research Program, Project 1-30; Transportation Research BoardConcrete pavement performance depends greatly on the support provided by the base and foundation. Support is characterized by a modulus of subgrade reaction (k value) and other inputs reflecting the potential for loss of support over time. This project has developed improved guidelines for selection of k values and loss-of-support values for use in the design of concrete pavements and pavement overlays using 3-D finite-element models and data from full-scale tests. A proposed recommended revision in the AASHTO Design Guide was developed for concrete pavements.

Rail Buckling Detection Utilizing Fiber Optic Sensing Technology

B. J. Dempsey, E. J. Barenberg, J. M. SignoreAssociation of American RailroadsThe specific problem addressed in this research is to track buckling detection. The ability to detect track buckling immediately as it occurs will allow for the aversion of potential disasters by alerting the trains of buckled tracks on their routes.Laboratory studies have been completed to determine the sensitivity of optical fibers to buckling in an 80 ft. Long continuous beam which is representative of a track rail. A portable low coast fiber optic transmitter/receiver unit that can be placed trackside has been developed to detect rail breakage and large bending strains. A Final Report is in preparation.

VFR Lighted Flyway Marker for the TCA Environment

B. J. Dempsey, T. L. HashbargerIllinois Transportation Research CenterThis project was conducted for the purpose of improving safe operation of aircraft under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) near Terminal Control Areas (TCA).A prototype VFR lighted flyway marker was designed, constructed, and evaluated under actual flight conditions. The initial design performed well throughout the project, exhibiting both good characteristics, and those that need improvement. It is recommended that an implementation program be initiated to place flyway markers which will benefit VFR aviation traffic around the TCA for Chicago-O'Hare International Airport. A Final Report for this project has been submitted to the sponsoring agency.

Interlayer Stress Absorbing Composite (ISAC) for Mitigating Reflection Cracking in Asphalt Concrete Overlays

B. J. Dempsey , M. T. MukhtarIllinois Department of Transportation, IHR-533This study was conducted for the purpose of developing an economical method for mitigating reflective cracking in asphalt concrete (AC) overlays. An Interlayer Stress Absorbing Composite (ISAC) layer was developed and fabricated in the laboratory using the materials considered appropriate for reflective cracking control.When compared to a control test section and a section using a commercially available reflection cracking control material, the ISAC layer provided for superior performance in both laboratory and field testing programs.A Final Report has been prepared for the sponsoring agency. The University of Illinois has filed a patent application for the ISAC layer.

New Railroad Ties and Products from Recycled Wood Ties and Plastics

B. J. Dempsey, E.J. Barenberg, S. M. DurianOffice of Solid Waste Research and Association of American RailroadsThere is potential to combine recycled wood ties and recycled plastics together to create a new composite material. The main goal of this research is to create a material that meets the strength and environmental requirements for today's railroad ties as well as other railroad industry applications.Based on research results, the construction of railroad ties and other railroad industry products from recycled wood ties and plastics is possible. A Final Report for this research study is being prepared at this time.

Excogitated Composite Multifunctional (ECM) Layer for Pavement Systems

B. J. Dempsey, P. HongschaovalitNational Cooperative Highway Research Program, IDEA ProgramBased on research findings, a New Improved ECM layer geosynthetic was developed that shows promise to satisfy the multiple performance functions in pavement systems to include base course-subgrade separation, base course shear strength, base course tensile strength, and drainage. The New Improved ECM layer performance in laboratory tests was considerably better than that of other geosynthetics evaluated.The ECM layer has the important traits of rapid deployment, easy construction, portability, strength, and durability. It is proposed that a field test site be identified for the ECM layer during the 1996 construction season. A draft Final Report has been submitted to the sponsoring agency.

Accelerated Testing of Separation Layers for Open-Graded Drainage Layers

B. J. Dempsey, J. M. SignoreIDOT-Illinois Transportation Research CenterThe scope of this study is to provide criteria for determining the separation layer requirements between open-graded base courses consisting of Illinois CA7 or CA11 aggregates and subgrade soils. The study is important and timely since the question of need for a separation layer between an open-graded base course and lime stabilized or lime modified subgrade has yet to be answered. Within the scope of this research, an accelerated testing procedure to evaluate the performance of separation layers will be developed.The general study objectives of this project are to determine the separation layer requirements for open-graded base courses utilizing a dense graded filter layer, geotextile filter layer materials, lime-modified subgrade with no filter layer, and lime-stabilized subgrade with no filter layer.Present research efforts have been concerned with development and fabrication of testing equipment for evaluating separation layer performance.

Subgrade Evaluation for Airport Pavement Design

M. R. Thompson, E. Tutumluer , M. BejaranoFAA Center of Excellence for Airport Pavement ResearchSubgrade soil and granular base/subbase evaluation is an important part of airport pavement design. Moduli and strength are of major concern. The objectives of this research are to 1) develop improved/new procedures and methodologies for establishing subgrade soils and granular base/subbase modulus/strength inputs (including subgrade design criteria) for mechanistic-based airport pavement design, and 2) establish concepts and procedures for effectively considering "subgrade stability" in airport pavement construction operations.

Stabilized Base Materials

M. R. Thompson , F. Young, D. Lange, C. BorgerkFAA Center of Excellence for Airport Pavement ResearchCurrent FAA airport pavement design procedures and policies require stabilized base and subbase for new pavements designed to accommodate aircraft weighing over 100 kips. The primary objectives of this study are t identify and review/evaluate the most current, emerging, and new technologies that relate to STABILIZED-BASE materials utilization in airport pavements. The project will facilitate the development and maintenance of the Best Demonstrated Available Technology (BDAT) for STABILIZED-BASED MATERIALS.

Highway Problems-Illinois Cooperative Highway and Transportation Research Program

M. R. ThompsonIllinois Department of Transportation, IHR-2Nine separate projects were included in the Illinois Cooperative Highway Research Program in 1995. They range in subject from the development of pavement design procedures to aggregates.IHR-2 provides support for initial investigations of new cooperative research with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). During this year, the project funded studies related to skid trailer instrumentation, profile measurement equipment, testing equipment, RAP (recycled asphalt concrete) base courses, accelerated pavement testing, and fracture testing of concrete.

Mechanistic Design Implementation and Monitoring

M. R. Thompson, E. J. Barenberg, T. Mack, B.Wente, T. PowersIllinois Department of Transportation, IHR-524Mechanistic-based thickness design concepts and procedures for rigid and flexible pavements were developed by UIUC in previous IDOT-sponsored projects. IDOT implementation activities are completed for jointed concrete and full-depth asphalt concrete (AC) pavements. Implementation activities for continuously reinforced concrete, conventional flexible (AC + granular base), and AC + high-strength stabilized base pavements are in progress. Selected rigid and flexible pavements are being monitored to develop data for future refinements and/or modifications to the mechanistic-based procedures. This project is to provide technical support to and to cooperate with IDOT in implementation and monitoring activities associated with the mechanistic-based design of flexible and rigid pavements.

Concepts and Practices for Considering General Aviation (GA) Airport Pavement Performance and Longevity

M. R. Thompson, B. J. Dempsey, E. J. Barenberg, T. VanDam, C. AlvarezIDOT - Illinois Transportation Research CenterThe serviceability and performance of "light duty" type GA pavements are influenced by repeated aircraft and other vehicular traffic loading and also by environmental factors (temperature, freeze-thaw, frost action, moisture, sunlight, etc.). Available Pavement Condition Index (PCI) data for typical Illinois GA airports were analyzed and state-of-the-art soils, materials, climatic, and pavement analysis and design technology were used to: (1) quantify the combined damaging effects of "load" and "environmental" factors; (2) consider the adequacy and efficacy of current FAA design procedures for Illinois conditions; and (3) develop suggested modifications and improved/refined procedures and techniques for achieving more cost-effective, better performing, and increased longevity GA airport pavements.

Cooperative Evaluation of Minnesota Road Test Results to Illinois Conditions

M. R. Thompson, E. J. Barenberg , J. Roesler, N. Garg, C. Alvarez, M. BajaranoIllinois Department of Transportation, IHR-535This study is a cooperative effort between the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the UIUC Department of Civil Engineering, and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to provide broad utilization of the data obtained from the Minnesota Road Research Project, the most comprehensive "full-scale" road test constructed since the AASHO Road Test. It includes 40 pavement sections (both concrete and flexible-type construction) for high-volume truck traffic and low-volume roads. It is the most extensively "instrumented" series of pavements ever constructed in the U.S. Results obtained from the cooperative efforts will be particularly helpful in verifying, refining, and modifying IDOT's flexible and rigid pavement analysis and design concepts and procedures.

Evaluation of Potential Applications of End-Result and Performance-Related Specifications

M. R. Thompson, S. H. Carpenter , M. I. Darter, D. Lange, A. Patel, N. GharaibehIllinois Department of Transportation, IHR-425Material and construction specifications are typically grouped as: (1) method, (2) end-result, or (3) performance-related. Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) specifications for asphalt concrete paving (ACP0, portland cement concrete paving (PCCP), and structural concrete for substructures and bridge decks (SC) contain elements of all three. IDOT has developed a quality control/quality assurance (QC/QA) program for ACP that was extensively used during the 1993 construction season. IDOT's PCCP QC/QA program is still evolving and IDOT does not have a QC/QA program for SC. The primary objective of this research project is to evaluate the potential applications of end-result and performance-related specifications to ACP, PCCP, and SC.

Laboratory Evaluation of Anisotropic Properties of Fiber Stabilized Sands

E. Tutumluer, U. Seyhan, I.-T. KimThis research aims at evaluating anisotropic properties of fiber stabilized sands as obtained from UI-FastCell triaxial testing. The strength and modulus characteristics of just sand, fiber-stabilized sand, and fiber-stabilized sand and soil mixtures will be evaluated. Reinforcement mechanisms will be identified by investigating the effects of different types of fibers on horizontal and vertical moduli. Because the material is better confined when fibers are present, horizontal modulus is expected to become higher thus resulting in an increase in the anisotropic horizontal to vertical modular ratios. The results will be essentially used to better characterize/model fiber-stabilized layers in flexible pavement systems.

Structural Evaluation of Unbound Aggregate Bases to Support the 2002 AASHTO Design Guide Development

E. Tutumluer, F.-J. ChouAggregates Foundation for Technology, Research, and EducationWith increasing demands being placed on highways through heavier and increasing number of loads it is critical that we better characterize the unbound aggregates component of the highway by incorporating recent advances in our characterization. This research is primarily aimed at enhancing the understanding of actual anisotropic, stress path dependent behavior of unbound aggregate bases and better characterization of the excellent compressive characteristics of the high quality aggregates for proper representation in the newly developed AASHTO 2002 Design Guide. The research activities will be conducted in collaboration with the project investigators of the International Center for Aggregates Research (ICAR).

Video Analysis of Aggregates

E. Tutumluer, C. Rao, J. StefanskiFederal Highway AdministrationAggregate particle shape, size, and gradation can impact the performance of asphalt concrete (AC) pavements. The Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) has developed a set of consensus properties to identify proper aggregates for AC mix designs. The efforts in this project are mainly focused on comparing results of different video imaging systems for flat and elongated particles, coarse aggregate angularity, and gradation. Both the precision and accuracy of results for each property will be studied. The project will also facilitate the development of an image analysis system for automating the determination of the aforementioned high priority aggregate properties.

Laboratory Determination of Anisotropic Properties of Granular Materials

E. Tutumluer, U. Seyhan

University of Illinois

A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z



Development of Signal Coordination Models for Congested Networks

R. F. Benekohal, G. Abu-LebdehFederal Highway Administration (Eisenhower Fellowship)

Delay Models for Unsignalized Intersections

R. F. Benekohal, B. Al-OmariUniversity of Illinois

Evaluation of Automatic Vehicle Identification in a Weigh-In-Motion System for CVO

R. F. Benekohal, M. Aycin, Y. El-Zohairy, J. BarnettIllinois Department of Transportation

Technology Transfer (T2) Models for FAA Center of Excellence

R. F. Benekohal, F. Coleman,III, E. ShimFederal Aviation Administration

Platooning Effects on Delay at Signalized Intersections

R. F. Benekohal, Y. El-ZohairyUniversity of Illinois

Modeling Platooning and Headway Characteristics of Vehicles

R. F. Benekohal, S. SadeghhosseiniUniversity of Illinois

Multilevel Analysis of Highway Accidents

R. F. Benekohal, E. ShimUniversity of Illinois

Determining the Effects of Trucks on Capacity of Intersections

R. F. Benekohal, W. Zhao

University of Illinois

Conspicuity Comparison of Incandescent Railroad Grade Crossing Signals and Light Emitting Diodes (LED) Railroad Grade Crossing Signals

F. Coleman, IIIAssociation of American Railroads

Development of a Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Laboratory for Applied Research in Civil Engineering

F. Coleman, IIIUniversity of Illinois

Simulation of Quad Gates and Trapped Vehicle Detection at Proposed High-Speed Train At-Grade Crossings

F. Coleman, III, Y. J. Moon, H. HamIllinois Department of Transportation

Human Factors and Hardware Reliability Analysis of a Vehicle Arresting Barrier (VAB) at Proposed High-Speed Passenger Train At-Grade Crossings

F. Coleman, III, Y. J. Moon, H. J. Ham

Illinois Department of Transportation

Platooning Effects on Delay at Signalized Intersections

University of Illinois This study is developing delay models that directly consider the platooning characteristics of vehicles at signalized intersections. The Highway Capacity manual (HCM) delay models use an adjustment factors to account for the platooning effects. The 94 HCM use a delay adjustment factor, DF, that can increase the uniform delay by 256% or reduce it by more than 70%. The new models eliminate the need for applying delay adjustment factors. Delay models are developed that consider the platooning characteristics as a part of the model derivation. The effects of platoon size and platoon density are formulated on the intersection delay.

Modeling Platooning and Headway Characteristics of Vehicles

University of Illinois This study examines the platooning and headway characteristics of vehicles at different traffic volumes. Models for platoon size distributions are developed and the relationships between platoon size and platoon headway are studied. Spacing, speed, and safe following distances are determined and potential safety impact of each are examined. A significant portion of vehicles platoon even at relatively low volume conditions.

Evaluation of Automatic Vehicle Identification in a Weigh-In-Motion System for CVO

Illinois Department of Transportation This study evaluates the performance of an automatic vehicle identification (AVI) and a high-speed weigh-in-motion (WIM) system to pre-clear trucks around the weigh stations. This project includes the following studies: Travel times and flow interruption, overall performance of the system, users' opinions survey, comparison of WIM and static scales data, and traffic safety and accidents around weigh stations. The AVI system will be installed on commercial vehicles and the WIM will be at the mainline speed of vehicles.

Development of Signal Coordination Models for Congested Networks

Federal Highway Administration (Eisenhower Fellowship) This study investigates the current signal coordination procedures and develops a methodology for handling coordination of congested intersections. The current signal coordination models primarily rely on delay as the measure of effectiveness. However, the delay model used in these procedures are not developed for congested conditions, thus the coordination plans are not very accurate or effective. Other measure of effectiveness are examined to optimize traffic flow through congested network of intersections.

Multilevel Analysis of Highway Accidents

University of Illinois The objectives of this study are to conduct a multilevel analysis of highway traffic accidents. The relationships between accident frequency and geometry, traffic composition, and capacity of highways are examined. Accident data are grouped into different levels and correlations among different levels and variables are examined. Furthermore, longitudinal and cross-sectional analyses are conducted to determine the temporal and spatial effects of variables on accidents.

Delay Models for Unsignalized Intersections

University of Illinois This study is developing delay models for unsignalized intersections. The approach uses the queuing characteristics of the traffic at an unsignalized intersection. Two-way and four-way unsignalized intersections are considered. Field data are collected to determine the traffic parameters needed for analytical models. The analytical models are developed and will be evaluated using the field data.

Determining the Effects of Trucks on Capacity of Intersections

University of Illinois This study is developing a methodology for computing PCE (passenger car equivalent) based on headways and delay. Currently, the effects of trucks on intersection saturation flow rates are considered using PCE factors that are based on headways. An analytical framework is developed and field data are being collected to determine the PCE based on delay. Simulation models will be used to complement the field data. Video images of vehicles will be used to determine headways and delay. The delay and headway information will be extracted using image-processing techniques.

Human Factors and Hardware Reliability Analysis of a Vehicle Arresting Barrier (VAB) at Proposed High-Speed Passenger Train At-Grade Crossings

Illinois Department of Transportation Guidelines prepared by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) for high speed passenger trains where they are expected to travel at speeds between 110 mph and 125 mph require that at-grade crossings be blocked from vehicle entry. IDOT's proposal to the FRA to test a Vehicle Arresting Barrier has been accepted for three sites along the proposed high speed passenger train corridor. The objective is to fully document the demonstration of this new technology, and to determine the operating requirements necessary for successful implementation.

Simulation of Quad Gates and Trapped Vehicle Detection at Proposed High-Speed Train At-Grade Crossings

Illinois Department of Transportation The plan to introduce new high-speed rail passenger service in the Chicago-St. Louis corridor involves the review of grade crossing protection. IDOT has under consideration the installation of quad gates at crossings to be upgraded to flashing lights and gates. The general objective of this project is to compare the operation of quad gates alone and in conjunction with trapped vehicle detection to current gates using system simulation to model the operation. The intent is to assess the capability of quad gates as a strong deterrent for vehicle crossing violations, as well as gain an understanding of how the proposed technology components would affect overall system operation and specifically safety for vehicles and trains.

Conspicuity Comparison of Incandescent Railroad Grade Crossing Signals and Light Emitting Diodes (LED) Railroad Grade Crossing Signals

Association of American Railroads The objective of this study is to obtain an assessment of the conspicuity of standard incandescent 12" lens railroad grade crossing flashing signal versus LED grade crossing signals from the general public at two distances. The intent being to determine whether the standard or LED signals appeared to be more discernible under available light and weather conditions present on the day of the test. A simple visual conspicuity test was conducted using an incandescent 12" lens railroad grade crossing flashing signal in comparison to two 12" light emitting diode (LED) grade crossing flashing signals designed and fabricated by different manufacturers. The conspicuity test was conducted using voluntary survey participants.

Development of a Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Laboratory for Applied Research in Civil Engineering

University of Illinois Recognizing the emerging utilization of GIS in Civil Engineering and the transfer mainframe software capabilities onto the PC platform, funding was obtained to initiate a GIS lab for teaching and research in the Department of Civil Engineering. Faculty and students from Hydrosystems, Environmental Engineering, and Transportation have utilized the hardware and software. GIS software includes ARC-INFO®, ARCVIEW®, Intergraph MGE®, TRANSCAD®, MapInfo®. IBM compatible Pentium® personal computers are utilized as the hardware platform. Workstations with site licenses for ARC-INFO® are also available.