EARLY-AGE SPALLING ON USAF AIRFIELD PAVEMENTS

Abstract

The U.S. Air Force (USAF) has had recurring problem with spalling occurring on new portlandcement concrete airfield pavements at early ages. These appear anywhere from before the pavement is turned over by the contractor to within one year of placement. Past studies of this problem have found early-age spalling is most generally associated with nondurable concrete that results from poor construction practices. The USAF implemented new requirements for mixture proportioning and an education program on the problem that has alleviated the problem to a degree. A recent runway and taxiway construction project is again suffering from early-age spalling, and the investigation to date again indicates nondurable concrete is the culprit.