Feasibility Study for the Use of Precast Portland Cement Concrete Panels for Rehabilitation of Airfield Pavements

Abstract

The use of conventional practices for long-term rehabilitation of existing asphalt or concrete pavements on active airfield surfaces is not always practical given the short timeframe available for construction and the need for high early strength to allow for immediate use by aircraft traffic. This study, sponsored by The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANY/NJ), investigated the use of precast portland cement concrete (PCC) panels as a cost effective alternative for rehabilitation and possible new construction of these critical facilities. PANY/NJ operates Kennedy International, Newark International, LaGuardia and Teterboro airports. From an historical perspective, research and application of this procedure in practical situations are limited. It was therefore necessary to conduct a feasibility study to assess if the engineering, construction, and performance requirements for the use of precast PCC panels could be met by currently available technology. The first step in the process was a review of the state of the practice to determine the extent to which the process was feasible. Based on the review and 7th International Conference on Concrete Pavements – Orlando, Florida, USA – September 9-13, 2001 discussions between the project team and PANY/NJ staff, two alternative schemes were selected for detailed evaluation. The first scheme involved use of slabs designed using a conventional design approach. In this method, use of plain jointed panels, 3.8 by 3.8 m to 7.6 by 7.6 m, and thickness ranging from 30.5 to 40.6 cm. was investigated for airfield applications. The second scheme involved use of post-tensioning to tie together multiple slab panels, to provide an effective slab size of about 7.6 m by 7.6 m. Post-tensioning of the slab panels allows use of thinner slabs. In evaluating these two schemes, the following critical limiting factors were considered to determine their feasibility: 1. Aircraft loading 2. Panel dimensions (transporting, site assembly, and placement considerations) 3. Existing pavement removal and site preparation 4. Use of interface treatment (sand bedding, stone dust, grout) 5. Load transfer at joints 6. Construction sequencing, including installation of light system 7. Allowable panel geometric tolerances and final surface grade tolerances This paper presents the results of the feasibility study and provides the preliminary design details for the two schemes selected for applications at PANY/NJ airfields. A trial installation is planned at New York’s La Guardia Airport during the fall 2001.