Civil Engineering Commons^™

Comparative Damage Of Different Truck Configurations On Jointed Plain Concrete Pavement, Tito P. Nyamuhokya

Civil Engineering Theses - Archive

This study estimated the damage done by trucks with 35 different configurations on a typical structure of a Jointed Plain Concrete Pavement. The configurations were proposed by New York Department of Transportation, the sponsor of this study. The generalized three dimensional finite element program Abaqus was used to calculate the response of linear elastic rigid pavement structure under truck loading. The loads for each truck case were placed at critical locations on the surface of the pavement to obtain the maximum tensile stresses at the bottom of concrete slab. The computed tensile stresses were used in Darter fatigue model (1977) …

An Interactive Visual Approach To Construction Project Scheduling, Anamika Sharma

Master's Theses (2009 -)

Sound project management is an important pillar of success for a construction company. Project schedules are the primary tools for communicating the thinking and planning by the management team to all the stakeholders in a construction project. Traditional project scheduling software have become an indispensable tool for managers in various project oriented industries for tracking the schedule, the budget and resource requirements of a project as well as for preparing reports, providing on-line access to project information and communication with the members of the project team. However, these benefits are realized only after the project information is entered into the …

Filterpave Systems, Purdue Ect Team

ECT Fact Sheets Archive

The need for hard-surfaced porous pavements has grown over the past few years as the market accepts PPS technology as a viable solution, as regulations leave few other options and as frequency of use increases. The FilterPave system is a unique porous pavement system that uses post-consumer recycled glass as the open-graded aggregate. Approximately 90 glass beverage bottles are used in just one square foot of pavement, making constructive use of abundant recycled materials that are traditionally sent to the landfill and used as daily cover.

Structural Behaviour And Analysis Of A Steel-Concrete Balcony Bracket, Sean Carroll

Theses

For commonly used moment connections, such as the various types of beam to column endplates, a large amount of information in relation to testing data and suggested design methods exist. Engineers can use this information to safely design such connections. When developing new and unique types of connections however, usually no prior testing information is available to engineers due to the unique design. At the present time, the most effective method of designing and developing any structural element or connection is through testing. Testing and detailed analysis of the results gives factual information on the behaviour of the structure, which …

Quick Test For Percent Of Deleterious Material, David Newton Richardson

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is considering the replacement of its deleterious materials test method (TM-71) with test methods that are more objective. MoDOT contracted with the Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) to develop a system of test methods. Nine quarry/ledge samples representing seven geologic formations (four limestones and three dolomites) were supplied by MoDOT. The ledge samples represented three aggregates each for use in concrete, asphalt, and granular base. Samples with controlled contamination were also tested, bringing the total to 18. The aggregates were subjected to fifteen test methods. This data, coupled with MoDOT historical …

Resilient Moduli Of Typical Missouri Soils And Unbound Granular Base Materials, David Newton Richardson, Thomas M. Petry, Yu-Ning Louis Ge, Y. P. Han, S. M. Lusher

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

The objective of this project is to accurately determine the resilient moduli for common Missouri subgrade soils and unbound granular base materials in accordance with the AASHTO T 307 test method. The test results included moduli data from 27 common subgrade soils out of the 99 Missouri soil associations and from 5 unbound granular bases. These materials were tested at their optimum water content and at an elevated water content, which would normally occur as a worse case scenario during the life of a pavement. The five unbound granular base materials were tested at two different gradations (high and low …

Bs News

Building Services Engineering

No abstract provided.

A Gasoline Demand Model For The United States Light Vehicle Fleet, Diana Rey

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The United States is the world's largest oil consumer demanding about twenty five percent of the total world oil production. Whenever there are difficulties to supply the increasing quantities of oil demanded by the market, the price of oil escalates leading to what is known as oil price spikes or oil price shocks. The last oil price shock which was the longest sustained oil price run up in history, began its course in year 2004, and ended in 2008. This last oil price shock initiated recognizable changes in transportation dynamics: transit operators realized that commuters switched to transit as a …

Verification Of Nyslab A Software For The Analysis Of Jointed Pavements, Maryam Limouee

Open Access Theses & Dissertations

A significant amount of research and development has been conducted for decades to provide a tool for the design and analysis of jointed slabs on different types of foundations. ILLI-SLAB, JSLAB, EverFE and ISLAB are the most used finite element modeling (FEM) codes that have gone through several iterations of improvement. JSLAB has been maintained by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and is distributed free of charge and there is significant interest in further improving the capabilities of that software package.

Researchers at the University of Texas at El Paso have been charged to implement several modifications in the latest …

Asset Management Application Towards An Improved Right Of Way Acquisition, Dora Oralia Francis

Open Access Theses & Dissertations

The purpose of this research is to discover a most suitable approach when the right of way acquisition process begins. As soon as it is known that the right of way acquisitions begin, speculations are made to parcels in order to increase the values of these parcel. Different types of speculations can be made, at a different phase of the right of way (ROW) acquisition process. The parcel cost can vary due to speculations according to the phase of the right of way acquisition process. To help assist the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) on the right of way acquisition …

Integrated Finite Element Analysis Program To Evaluate Pavement Performance And Predict Non-Destructive Testing Response, Cesar Tirado

Open Access Theses & Dissertations

The response of a pavement system under wheel loading has been a subject of research for many decades. Several models have been developed to predict pavement performance based on layer deformation and fatigue cracking. Among them stand out computer programs based on linear elasto-static layered systems and viscoelastic-plastic models; however, newer or more advanced constitutive models cannot be rigorously incorporated into them. In contrast, finite element techniques allow incorporation of nonlinear and viscoelastic-plastic behavior of the pavement materials but licensing of software and the need to train personnel greatly limits its use by highway agencies. A mechanistic-empirical (M-E) approach for …

Estimating Variation In Stiffness And Volume Change Of Clays From Geochemical And Index Properties, Cynthia Roxanna Zuniga

Open Access Theses & Dissertations

Clayey soils from six different locations in Texas were analyzed and evaluated with respect to their expansion and shrinkage and change in stiffness associated with moisture content variation. These soils consist of five high plasticity-index (PI) clays (PI greater than 25) and one low-PI clay (PI = 17). The behavior of the clays changes dramatically with moisture content fluctuation, thus causing stiffness and volume changes throughout the year. Total or differential volume movements caused by swell or shrinkage strains of expansive soils and reduction in modulus can exert enough pressure to damage the pavements and cause maintenance problems.

The intent …

Characterization Of A Mems Accelerometer For A Highway Health Monitoring Ultra-Low Power Sensor, Karla Cecilia Enriquez

Open Access Theses & Dissertations

With the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, government officials recognized the need to implement automated methods that reduce the cost of assessment projects and provide a long-term solution to monitor the structural health of bridges and highways. Although important research exists in the area of non-destructive evaluation, current road health monitoring efforts continue to be costly and time consuming. This Thesis focuses on the characterization of a MEMS accelerometer intended to be the basis of a novel ultra-low power sensing system to remotely asses the condition of highways. The architecture of a sensor prototype built to validate an algorithm …

Investigation Of Surface Fine Grained Laminae, Streambed, And Streambank Processes Using A Watershed Scale Hydrologic And Sediment Transport Model, Joseph Paul Russo

University of Kentucky Doctoral Dissertations

Sediment transport at the watershed scale in the Bluegrass Region of Kentucky is dominated by surface fine grained laminae, streambed, and streambank erosion; high instream sediment storage; and surface erosion processes. All these processes can be impacted by agricultural, urban, and suburban land-uses as well as hydrologic forcing. Understanding sediment transport processes at the watershed scale is a need for budgeting and controlling sediment pollution, and watershed modeling enables investigation of the cumulative effect of sediment processes and the parameters controlling these processes upon the entire sediment budget for a watershed. Sediment transport is being modeled by coupling the hydrologic …

Catchment Modelling Tools And Pathways Review, Zeinab Bedri, Michael Bruen

Reports

No abstract provided.

Mechanistic Evaluation Of Rubblized Pcc Pavements, Yigong Ji

JTRP Technical Reports

This report presents a mechanistic approach and procedures for determining layer coefficients to characterize the in-situ behaviors of rubblized pavements. This procedure was developed based on the 1993 AASHTO Pavement Design Guide utilizing Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) testing and in-place simulation using back-calculation layer modulus. In order to evaluate the rubblized pavement systematically, twelve constructed pavement sections were extensively tested by FWD annually after construction. The FWD data was processed using the proposed mechanistic procedure. In addition, statistical analysis was conducted to compare the pavement structure parameters each year, including layer coefficient and in-situ resilient modulus using Analysis of Variance …

Performance Related Specifications (Prs) For Concrete Pavements In Indiana, Volume 1: Executive Summary, Cole Graveen, Eric Max Falker, Micah Beaver, Narayanan Neithalath, W. Jason Weiss, J. Olek, Tommy Edward Nantung, Victor Lee Gallivan

JTRP Technical Reports

Performance-Related Specifications (PRS) are specifications that base pavement acceptance and pay adjustment on the projected performance and predicted life-cycle cost (LCC) for a specific pavement. PRS relate measurable quality characteristics with pavement performance through computer simulations that incorporate physical distress models. Previously, work at ERES consultants by Darter and co-workers developed prototype PRS for jointed plain portland cement concrete pavements (PCC) through Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) through a series of research projects. However, before this research program began, pavements have not been constructed using these specifications. This report describes the Indiana Department of Transportation’s (INDOT) experience with developing and implementing …

Saw-Cutting Guidelines For Concrete Pavements: Examining The Requirements For Time And Depth Of Saw-Cutting, Kambiz Raoufi, Tony Their, W. Jason Weiss, Jan Olek, Tommy E. Nantung

JTRP Technical Reports

Joints are placed in Portland cement concrete pavements (PCCP) to control random cracking. These joints provide a weakened plane that enables a crack to form in a controlled manner, relieving residual stresses that develop when thermal, hygral, or hydration movements are resisted by sub grade and adjoining pavement. While the concept of creating a weakened plane through saw-cutting is straightforward, determining the time and depth of the saw-cut has proven to be complicated. The goal of this project was to reduce the risk for joint raveling and random cracking. Specifically, this project has focused on: developing a procedure for determining …

Performance Related Specifications (Prs) For Concrete Pavements In Indiana, Volume 2: Technical Report, Cole Graveen, Eric Max Falker, Micah Beaver, Narayanan Neithalath, W. Jason Weiss, J. Olek, Tommy Edward Nantung, Victor Lee Gallivan

JTRP Technical Reports

Performance-Related Specifications (PRS) are specifications that base pavement acceptance and pay adjustment on the projected performance and predicted life-cycle cost (LCC) for a specific pavement. PRS relate measurable quality characteristics with pavement performance through computer simulations that incorporate physical distress models. Previously, work at ERES consultants by Darter and co-workers developed prototype PRS for jointed plain portland cement concrete pavements (PCC) through Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) through a series of research projects. However, before this research program began, pavements have not been constructed using these specifications. This report describes the Indiana Department of Transportation’s (INDOT) experience with developing and implementing …

Synthesis Of Best Practices In Transportation Security, Volume I: Vulnerability Assessment, Haritha Reddy Venna, Jon D. Fricker

JTRP Technical Reports

Part I of the research focused on developing a methodology to identify and evaluate the most critical and vulnerable INDOT assets. This method aims at obtaining an index that reflects the vulnerability and criticality of an asset on the basis of multiple performance criteria. This methodology was tested on the seven INDOT districts. Because not all the factors that influence the vulnerability do have same weight, the analytical hierarchical process is used to obtain the weights for the criteria. Countermeasures are suggested as a part of the research to reduce the vulnerability of a given asset based on its relevant …

Synthesis Of Best Practices In Transportation Security, Volume Ii: Emergency Response, Rodrigo Vargas, Jon D. Fricker

JTRP Technical Reports

Part I of the research focused on developing a methodology to identify and evaluate the most critical and vulnerable INDOT assets. This method aims at obtaining an index that reflects the vulnerability and criticality of an asset on the basis of multiple performance criteria. This methodology was tested on the seven INDOT districts. Because not all the factors that influence the vulnerability do have same weight, the analytical hierarchical process is used to obtain the weights for the criteria. Countermeasures are suggested as a part of the research to reduce the vulnerability of a given asset based on its relevant …

Mitigation Of Impact Vibrations Using Impedance Mismatch In Cylindrical Structures, Sachiko Sueki

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

The focus of this work is to study the phenomenon of material impedance mismatch to determine its effect on the mitigation of high frequency accelerations in projectile and long bar structures within linear ranges of materials. In this study, the acceleration responses of structures with various materials and material combinations were studied experimentally, numerically and by the Finite Element Analysis (FEA). Air-gun tests conducted by the US Army Research Laboratory were modeled using FEA to simulate the acceleration pulse and shock waves experienced by artillery components during a launch. After the prototype of projectile was selected, further studies were conducted …

Parametric Study Of Stimulus-Response Behavior Incorporating Vehicle Heterogeneity In Car-Following Models, Saidi Siuhi

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

The objective of this study was to develop a family of car-following models that address the shortcomings of car-following models developed by General Motors (GM) in the 1950s. The developed models consist of separate models for acceleration, deceleration, and steady-state responses for congested freeway traffic conditions. The study calibrated the models using individual vehicle trajectory data collected on a segment of Interstate 101 in Los Angeles, California. Furthermore, the study validated the models using individual vehicle trajectory data collected on a segment of Interstate 80 in Emeryville, California. The study used nonlinear regression with robust standard errors to estimate the …

Analysis Of A Caliche Stiffened Pile Foundation, Richard C. Stone Jr.

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Cemented carbonate deposits (known locally as "caliche") in Las Vegas have been used to support shallow and deep foundations with relatively high bearing pressures compared to soil. Most high rise structures in Las Vegas are founded on either a large mat or a long pile foundation. Recently, a new foundation type consisting of a short pile system bonded to shallow cemented layers was utilized for a large high rise building in Las Vegas and settlements during construction were recorded. The bonding of caliche layers together with short piles forms a caliche stiffened pile (CSP) foundation. The CSP foundation is unique …

Quantity-Based Cost Forecasting System For Street Construction Projects, Nipesh Pradhananga

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Construction projects typically are not withdrawn after going into the competitive bidding process. The decision of contracting authorities regarding which projects will proceed to the bidding stage depends, in part, upon the early estimates of probable cost. Efforts are made to make this estimate as realistic as possible. Irrespective of the estimate of probable cost, the actual project cost is established by the amount of the winning bid.

This study analyzed historical bid data of street construction projects undertaken by the Public Works Department, Clark County, Nevada, from 1991 through 2006. The focus of this study was on utilizing statistical …

Effect Of Phase Countdown Timers On Queue Discharge Characteristics Under Heterogeneous Traffic Conditions, Anuj Sharma

Anuj Sharma Publications

Analysis of queue discharge characteristics at signalized intersections is a primary component of traffic signal analysis and design. On the basis of previous studies, mainly conducted in homogeneous traffic conditions, the discharge headway is assumed to be high at the start of green for the first few vehicles, mainly because of start-up lost times, and is also assumed to reach the minimum value by the fourth or fifth vehicle in the queue. The minimum headway is expected to continue until the end of the queue. However, this may not be the case under heterogeneous traffic conditions, such as those in …

Mechanistic-Empirical Modeling In Network-Level Pavement Management, Scott Schram, Magdy Abdelrahman

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Researchers and practitioners have long recognized the advantages of mechanistic modeling. As agencies implement the Guide for Mechanistic-Empirical Design of New and Rehabilitated Pavement Structures [referred to as the Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG)] in the local project-level pavement management system (PMS), its potential as a planning tool in network-level analyses remains unrecognized. A unique, large-scale application of MEPDG is presented. The Nebraska Department of Roads uses a decision tree that systematically screens and identifies candidates for entry into a multiyear optimization program. The process uses linear deterioration rates that have been shown to provide an R² value as …

Resilient Moduli Of Granular Base Materials Using A Modified Type 5 Gradation, David Newton Richardson, S. M. Lusher

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) in collaboration with the Missouri Limestone Producers Association (MLPA) was interested in determining what effect a change in the Type 5 aggregate base gradation specification would have on the resilient modulus (Mr) of said aggregate. The proposed change would lower the minimum allowable total percentage of material passing the #4 (4.75 mm mesh) sieve from 35% to 25%, and the #30 (0.600 mm mesh) sieve from 10% to 5%. The remainder of the gradation specification would remain unchanged. The rationale for this proposed change is that some aggregate producers believe the change could help …

Seismic Behavior Of Circular Reinforced Concrete Bridge Columns Under Combined Loading Including Torsion, Suriya Prakash Shanmugam

Doctoral Dissertations

"Reinforced concrete (RC) columns of skewed and curved bridges with unequal spans and column heights can be subjected to combined loading including axial, flexure, shear, and torsion loads during earthquakes. The combination of axial loads, shear force, and flexural and torsional moments can result in complex failure modes of RC bridge columns. This study carried out experimental and analytical studies to investigate the seismic performance of circular RC columns under combined loading including torsion. The main variables considered here were (i) the ratio of torsion-to-bending moment (T/M), (ii) the ratio of bending moment-to-shear (M/V) or shear span (H/D), and (iii) …

In-Plane Behavior Of Strengthened Unreinforced Masonry Infill Walls With Alternative Wood-Fiber Fly Ash Material, Yosuke Tanizawa

Masters Theses

"This research investigates the potential for an alternative masonry product to use in masonry infill wall systems. The study also investigates the effects of an external fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) strengthening system on in-plane behavior of the alternative unreinforced masonry (URM) walls. The alternative masonry product is produced in a solid unit configuration and utilizes recycled white oak wood-fibers and an ASTM Class-C fly ash as its raw materials. The external strengthening system investigated consists of an elastomeric polyurea surface coating with and without integrated discrete chopped E-glass fibers which is directly sprayed on the URM wall surfaces. The alternative …