Accelerated Repair of Jointed Concrete Pavements (JCP) using Precast Concrete Panels-Colorado Experience

Abstract

One hundred and fifty seven distressed concrete slabs were rehabilitated with precast concrete panels at 18 separate locations along the I-25 corridor north of Denver between Mead and Loveland during October and November, 2003. The purpose of this study was to document the feasibility of precast panels as a “fast track” repair alternative. The panel thicknesses ranged from 5.5 in. to 7.25 in. and panel lengths varied from 12 ft to 20 ft. The repair clusters consisted of 2-8 slabs connected by fiber glass ties. High Density Polyurethane (HDP) foam was used to stabilize and slab jack the panels to match elevations. The transverse and longitudinal joints were backfilled using joint bonding material. The majority of panels were diamond ground to ensure acceptable ride quality. The entire project was completed in fifty four days. The parameters considered to establish initial repair effectiveness include (i) construction speed and (ii) structural integrity in terms of deflection (uniformity of support.)