Research

FDOT Transverse Joint Construction

Researched Transverse Joint construction for Portland Cement Concrete (PCC). Studied the effects of transverse joint width on the cost, ability to clean and performance of the joints. The research included site visits, laboratory tests and the development of a QC device in order to conclude and compare the advantages/disadvantages of 1/8" and 3/8" joints. The testing included an axial stress test in order to determine adhesion and cohesion strengths of the silicone sealant in the two joint geometries, sealant testing to provide a Viscoelastic model for the silicone sealant, tests to measure the effects moisture and debris have on adhesion, and calibration testing to verify the sensitivity of the QC device. This research will provide the FDOT with the proper documentation to make a decision on implementing a new design (1/8" transverse joint) or keeping the existing one (3/8" transverse joint).

My personal role included:

• The preparation of hundreds of sample transverse joints to be used in shear testing. All sample coupons had to be constructed to exacting and repeatable standards in order for the test results to be conclusive.


• Collaboration on various aspects of the project ranging from which type of tape to buy to mechanical shear apparatus design and construction.


• Contacting various engineers and project managers in the FDOT to schedule site visits and film procedures of PCC transverse joint construction at various interstate projects throughout the southeast.


• The redesign of the prototype and final versions of the QC device. This included taking the design from a spring loaded device to a lever device that improved upon accuracy, ease of use and safety.

Click the image below for various pictures and videos: