Civil and Environmental Engineering Commons^™

Fatigue Assessment Of Traffic Signal Mast Arms Based On Field Test Data Under Natural Wind Gusts, Genda Chen, Jingning Wu, Jiaqing Yu, Lokeswarappa R. Dharani, Michael G. Barker

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

In recent years, several states including Missouri, Wyoming, California, and Texas experienced fracture failures of traffic signal mast arms. Almost all the failures are associated with the propagation of defects or cracks. It is therefore imperative to evaluate existing mast arms using a simple yet accurate procedure. A statistical methodology is proposed to predict the fatigue life of signal mast arm structures on the basis of field-measured strain data. The annual occurrence of various stress levels is determined using the historical wind speed data in the vicinity of a mast arm structure and the strain readings of the structure under …

Pedestrian Reaction To Crossing Signal Delay, Deogratias Eustace

Civil and Environmental Engineering and Engineering Mechanics Faculty Publications

Pedestrians with experience at a certain intersection learn the length of signal cycle, the phase change pattern of the signal, and the order in which traffic flow is released. These pedestrians have a higher chance of noncompliance with traffic signals. Most of the noncomplying pedestrians save a small amount of time, less than 18 seconds, by crossing the road shortly before the onset of the WALK signal indication. The study agrees with other studies done in the past that pedestrians ignore the traffic signals. They do so in order to reduce their own time delays.

Water Distribution Modeling, Thomas M. Walski, Donald V. Chase, Dragan A. Savic

Civil and Environmental Engineering and Engineering Mechanics Faculty Publications

To effectively use water distribution models, the engineer must be able to link knowledge of basic hydraulic theory and the mechanics of the program with that of the operation of real-world systems. Water Distribution Modeling does just that.

Written by industry experts, it provides a practical resource for engineers and modelers that goes well beyond being a how-to guide for typing data into a computer program. It contains straightforward answers to common questions related both to modeling and to distribution systems in general.

This textbook walks the practicing engineer or student through the modeling process from start to finish — …

Polyurethane Foam Based Packing Media For Biofilters Removing Volatile Organic Compounds From Contaminated Air, Felipe A. Martinez

LSU Master's Theses

In recent years, biofiltration technology has gained acceptance worldwide as an economical and reliable air pollution control technology for treating gases contaminated by low concentrations of biodegradable volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Important applications include control of odors generated by wastewater treatment plants and control of VOC emissions from industrial sources. Although there have been many successful applications, several operational problems have been reported in the literature. These include difficulty in control over bed moisture content, high head loss caused by excessive biomass production, and inability to maintain removal efficiency during transient periods of high concentration loading. Use of a superior …

A Real-Time Offset Transitioning Algorithm For Coordinating Traffic Signals, Darcy M. Bullock, Montasir Abbas

JTRP Technical Reports

This report introduces an adaptive real-time offset transitioning algorithm that can be viewed as an integrated optimization approach designed to work with traditional coordinated-actuated systems. The Purdue Real-Time Offset Transitioning Algorithm for Coordinating Traffic Signals (PRO-TRACTS) adds to the controllers the ability to adaptively change their offsets in response to changes in traffic pattern, providing an intermediate solution between traditional coordinated-actuated control systems and adaptive control systems. To facilitate implementation, a new National Transportation Communication for ITS Protocol (NTCIP) object for capturing detector actuation at the controller’s level is defined in this report. The unique cycle-based tabulation of volume and …

Follow-Up Study To Fhwa/In/Jhrp-92/22: Development Of A Strategy For Compliance With Epa And Osha Regulations Applicable To Indot Facilities, Lynn A. Corson

JTRP Technical Reports

The objectives of this research were - 1. To assess the department’s progress at selected facilities toward minimizing, reducing, recycling, reusing, reclaiming and eliminating by-products of operations classified as hazardous, solid or special waste. The department’s progress toward modifying or eliminating (such as by contracting) operations or its use of alternate products to reduce potential environmental liability and associated costs will be examined, 2. To observe and analyze selected operations at a sample of facilities visited during the first study [March 1990 – November 1992] to identify where additional strengthening is needed. Additional facilities recommended by the department will also …

Real-Time Determination Of Soil Type, Water Content, And Density Using Electromagnetics, Vincent P. Drnevich, Chih-Ping Lin, Quanghee Yi, Janet Elaine Lovell

JTRP Technical Reports

The primary objective of this study was to explore the potential use of electromagnetic characteristics of soils using the Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) technique to identify physical properties of soils. Three fundamental studies in this exploration are the frequencydependent electromagnetic properties of soils, the wave propagation in a TDR system, and the inverse analyses of TDR waveforms. The three-phase model for soils was extended to a four-phase model so as to account for the interface effect and hence the soil fineness. The physical parameters of the four-phase model are related to the frequency-dependent dielectric permitivity of the soil through a …

Pakej Pembelajaran Sekolah Memandu (Ppsm), Salim Zareyna

Student Works (2000-2009)

Projek ilmiah tahap akhir 2 (WXES 3182) merupakan satu syarat wajib bagi pelajar Fakulti Sains Komputer dan Teknologi Maklumat, Universiti Malaya bagi memenuhi syarat-syarat penganugerahan Ijazah Sarjana Muda Sains Komputer dan Teknologi Maklumat dengan Kepujian. Tajuk yang dipilih dalam projek ini adalah PPSM. PPSM merupakan suatu pakej pembelajaran tambahan selain daripada buku undang-undang lalulintas. Pakej yang akan dibina ini merangkumi pengenalan kepada papan tanda lalulintas, etika memandu di jalanraya dan ujian teori undang-undang. Selain daripada itu, diselitkan juga tips-tips ujian jalanraya dan Kurikulum Pendidikan Pemandu (KPP). Dalam usaha membangunkan pakej ini, perisian Macromedia Director 8 dan Macromedia Flash 5 akan …

Development And Evaluation Of Cement-Based Materials For Repair Of Corrosion-Damaged Reinforced Concrete Slabs, Rongtang Liu, J. Olek

JTRP Technical Reports

In this study, the results of an extensive laboratory investigation conducted to evaluate the properties of concrete mixes used as patching materials to repair reinforced concrete slabs damaged by corrosion are reported. Seven special concrete mixes containing various combinations of chemical or mineral admixtures were developed and used as a patching material to improve the durability of the repaired slabs. Physical and mechanical properties of these mixes, such as compressive strength, static modulus of elasticity, dynamic modulus of elasticity, and shrinkage were evaluated. Durability-related parameters investigated included resistance of concrete to penetration of chloride ions and freeze-thaw resistance. The results …

Development Of A Procedure To Identify Aggregates For Bituminous Surfaces In Indiana, Terry R. West, Kyu H. Cho

JTRP Technical Reports

Adequate friction resistance is needed to prevent pavement slipperiness allowing vehicles to stop in a reasonable distance. For stone mastic asphalt surfaces, friction resistance is mainly a function of the interaction between the aggregates exposed at the road surface and vehicle tires. Aggregate performance is reduced with time by wear and polishing as a consequence of vehicular traffic. In this research a method to investigate performance based on physical, chemical and petrographic factors has been evaluated. The objective was to develop a laboratory method to test Indiana dolomite, limestone, sandstone, and gravel aggregates to predict friction resistance in the field …

Development Of Low Cost Retaining Walls For Indiana Highways, Philippe L. Bourdeau, Patrick J. Fox, David Joseph Runser, Jin-Pyo Lee

JTRP Technical Reports

Low-cost alternatives to traditional modular facing reinforced soil retaining walls were reviewed, on the basis of published data and information. Technological information, design methods and observed performance of segmental facing reinforced soil walls were used for this review. Guidelines are proposed for selection, design and construction of such retaining walls, within a limited range of conditions, in Indiana highway projects.

Evaluation And Policy For Bridge Deck Expansion Joints, Luh M. Chang, Yao-Jong Lee

JTRP Technical Reports

This report is an overview of the research that was performed for the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) concerning the performance of bridge deck expansion joints. The purpose of the research is to evaluate several types of joints currently in use and also provides the evaluation criteria for rating the joint condition. The types of joints investigated are Compression Seal (B.S.) joint, Strip Seal (S.S.) joint, Integral Abutment Jointless (I.A.) joint, Poured Silicone (XJS) joint, and Polymer Modified Asphalt (LDI and PaveTech) joint. The research was performed by questionnaire surveys, Roadway Management data analysis, expert interviews, and site assessment. The …

Evaluation Of Zero Velocity Deicer Spreader And Salt Spreader, Tommy E. Nantung

JTRP Technical Reports

Increasing traffic volumes and declining resources have led to a need for innovative winter maintenance strategies, techniques, equipment and materials while not sacrificing the safety of the traveling public. Any reduction of salt usage will ease fund for other maintenance operations while minimizing salt runoff on surface and ground waters and effect of road salt on roadside vegetation. In the past, conventional spreaders have been designed for sand and are generally incapable of metering the lower, more precise amount of salt desired. The use of materials in solid form demands critical timing of the application to minimize loss of the …

Seismic Design Of Deep Foundations, Antonio Bobet, Rodrigo Salgado, Dimitrios Loukidis

JTRP Technical Reports

Detailed investigations of pile foundations affected by earthquakes around the world since the 1960’s indicate that pile foundations are susceptible to damage to such a degree that the serviceability and integrity of the superstructure may be affected. Although numerous cases of seismically damaged piles are reported, the detailed mechanisms causing the damage are not yet fully understood. As a consequence, an effective seismic design of pile foundations has not been yet established in practice. Many road bridge structures supported on piles exist in southern Indiana. This is a region where the risk of occurrence of a dangerous earthquake is high …

Evaluation Of The Implementation Of Hot Pour Sealants And Equipment For Crack Sealing In Indiana, David R. Ward

JTRP Technical Reports

This study was initiated as an implementation effort that would monitor, assist with and report on a new maintenance activity involving the trial use of hot pour crack sealant. Work associated with this new activity was qualitatively assessed over a period of several years. INDOT began by purchasing six oil-jacketed melters that were distributed to various sub-districts. Previous INDOT research indicated using hot pour sealant might save on labor expense because it lasted significantly longer than the current emulsion. Random observations were made of various sub-district crews using hot pour sealant and the results were reported to appropriate personnel. Inspections …

Development And Application Of Linear Scheduling Techniques To Highway Construction Projects, D. J. Harmelink, Rene Antonio Yamin

JTRP Technical Reports

Crucial to the successful outcome of major highway construction and reconstruction projects today is the ability to accurately plan, predict and control the construction process. Evermore sensitive to budget control, schedule control, resource allocation and impacts on the motoring public, highway constructors today require sophisticated project management tools to achieve project goals. One of the tools recently being used across the country is project scheduling. The use of scheduling techniques on highway projects has grown out of the successful application of these methods to building construction for the past 20 to 30 years. Unfortunately, the effective application of traditional scheduling …

Development Of Improved Pavement Performance Prediction Models For The Indiana Pavement Management System, Sedat Gulen, Karen Zhu, John Weaver, Jie Shan, William F. Flora

JTRP Technical Reports

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) is increasingly committed to the Pavement Management System. For this reason, updated simple pavement performance prediction models with the least number of explanatory (independent) variables are required to predict the performance of various pavement types for future planning of rehabilitation or replacement. In Indiana, the two main pavement types are jointed concrete pavement (JCP) and bituminous pavement (BIT). 1999 and 2000 year data were used to develop regression models for different pavement types for the Interstate and Non- Interstate Roads systems. The International Roughness Index (IRI), in inches per mile, was mainly used for …

2001 Directory Of Indiana State, County, City And Town Officials Responsible For Road And Street Work, Indiana Ltap

Indiana Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) Directory

Contact information for agency officials and employees responsible for Indiana’s local road infrastructure.

An Analysis Of Speed Limit Policies For Indiana, Nisar M. Khan, Kumares C. Sinha

JTRP Technical Reports

The repeal of the National maximum Speed Limit law in 1995 enabled individual states to set their own speed limits. Speed limits are necessary to ensure mobility while preserving highway safety. It is important that states continually monitor and evaluate existing operating speeds in the context of changing patterns of travel, and changing characteristics of highways, vehicles, drivers, and land-use. Any efforts to review existing speed limits should be accompanied by evaluation of policy impacts such as safety and economic productivity. The goal of this research is to develop a set of speed limit policy guidelines for the state. The …

Bs News

Building Services Engineering

No abstract provided.

Implementation Of The Biological Opinion For The Missouri River Main Stem System, Missouri River Bank Stabilization And Navigation Project, And Kansas River Reservoir System

United States Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) requires that the Corps of Engineers (Corps), in coordination with the appropriate resources agency, will ensure that any action authorized, funded, or carried out is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any federally listed threatened or endangered species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat. Formal consultation between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the Corps under Section 7 of the ESA culminated with the "Biological Opinion on the Operation of the Missouri River Main Stem System, Operation and Maintenance of the Missouri River Bank Stabilization and …

Missouri National Recreational River Gavins Point Dam To Ponca State Park 2001 Survey

United States Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District

Public and Private Access Spots and Points of Interest Between Gavins Point
Dam and Ponca State Park on the Nebraska Side of the River

Missouri River - Fort Peck Dam To Ponca State Park Geomorphological Assessment Related To Bank Stabilization, David S. Biedenharn, Rebecca S. Soileau, Lisa C. Hubbard, Peggy H. Hoffman, Colin R. Thorne, Chris C. Bromley, Chester C. Watson

United States Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District

The overall objective of this study was to evaluate the potential impacts of bank stabilization on the morphologic processes in the Missouri River with a particular emphasis on the formation and persistence of habitat bars. This investigation addresses the following four open water reaches of the Missouri: (1) Fort Peck Dam to vicinity of Yellowstone River (304 kilometers); (2) Garrison Dam to Lake Oahe (127 kilometers); (3) Fort Randall Dam to the Niobrara River (58 kilometers); and (4) Gavins Point Dam to Ponca (93 kilometers). This report provides an additional tool for designers and managers to use when developing and …

Estimation Of Reference Crop Evapotranspiration Using Fuzzy State Models, Lameck O. Odhiambo, R. E. Yoder, D. C. Yoder

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Faculty Publications

Daily evapotranspiration (ET) rates are needed for irrigation scheduling. Owing to the difficulty of obtaining accurate field measurements, ET rates are commonly estimated from weather parameters. A few empirical or semi–empirical methods have been developed for assessing daily reference crop ET, which is converted to actual crop ET using crop coefficients. The FAO Penman–Monteith method, which is now accepted as the standard method for the computation of daily reference ET, is sophisticated. It requires several input parameters, some of which have no actual measurements but are estimated from measured weather parameters. In this study, we examined the suitability of fuzzy …

Optimization Of Fuzzy Evapotranspiration Model Through Neural Training With Input–Output Examples, Lameck O. Odhiambo, R. E. Yoder, D. C. Yoder, J. W. Hines

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Faculty Publications

In a previous study, we demonstrated that fuzzy evapotranspiration (ET) models can achieve accurate estimation of daily ET comparable to the FAO Penman–Monteith equation, and showed the advantages of the fuzzy approach over other methods. The estimation accuracy of the fuzzy models, however, depended on the shape of the membership functions and the control rules built by trial–and–error methods. This paper shows how the trial and error drawback is eliminated with the application of a fuzzy–neural system, which combines the advantages of fuzzy logic (FL) and artificial neural networks (ANN). The strategy consisted of fusing the FL and ANN on …

Life-Cycle Cost Analysis: A Computer Aided Tool For The Egyptian Construction Industry, Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim

Theses and Dissertations

The construction industry can be considered as an indication of economical status of any country.

Remediation Simulation/Optimization Demonstrations, Richard C. Peralta

Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Publications

Applications of simulation/optimization (S/0) software to develop contamination remediation strategies include formal remediation optimization using heads and gradients (hydraulics-based) and concentrations (risk-based) constraints. The six reported cases involve pump and treat systems, or pump, treat and re-inject systems, together termed PAT systems. We used S/0 modeling to perform hydraulic optimization for two of the sites and transport optimization for four. For four of the six sites, other parties used normal simulation (S) modeling alone to develop pumping strategies. Comparing the S/0 model-developed strategies with the S model-developed strategies showed S/0 modeling benefits ranging up to: (a) 25 percent reduction in …

Simulation/Optimization Applications And Software For Optimal Ground-Water And Conjunctive Water Management, Richard C. Peralta

Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Publications

Diverse water management simulation/optimization (S/O) experiences promoted the development of many S/O modeling approaches and models. Several of these are being incorporated within the Simulation/Optimization Modeling System (SOMOS). Non-modeler water scientists or engineers can apply one SOMOS module to optimize field-scale groundwater and conjunctive water management. Experienced groundwater modelers can apply other modules to optimally manage complex heterogeneous aquifer and stream-aquifer systems. SOMOS employs a variety of simulation models and approaches and optimization algorithms to optimize flow and contaminant management. SOMOS or its precursor modules have been well proven in real-world projects. Designed for use by consultants, students, academics, and …

Studies On The Pollution Parameters Of Leachate From Ampang Landfill, Syed Fatimah Kamal Batcha

Student Works (2000-2009)

ln the first part of the study, the characteristics of the leachate from Ampang landfill, collected before and after the landfill closure was analysed. In general, the characteristics of the Ampang landfill leachate was found to be typical of other landfill leachates in the Klang Valley. The analysis reveals that the Ampang landfill leachate during its active life had high contents of sodium, potassium, chloride and ferum, with concentrations of 687 ppm, 785 ppm, 2500 ppm and 45 ppm respectively. Generally and as expected, the leachate collected before the landfiII closure was found to be more concentrated and contains more …

Assessing Methodologies For Identification Of Significant Impacts In The Iso 14001 Ems (Environmental Management Systems), Ann Wye-Wye Wang

Student Works (2000-2009)

ISO 14001 is a voluntary environmental management system specification standard in the ISO 14000 series. It contains those elements that must be satisfied by an organisation seeking registration or certification to the standard. Identification of significant environmental impacts is one of the requirements as stated in clause 4.3.1 of MS ISO 14001 EMS - specification with guidance for use, and is an important step in the implementation of ISO 14001 standard. A study on the methodologies for identification of significant environmental impacts in the ISO 14001 EMS (Environmental Management Systems) was carried out. Three methods that have been developed are …