Pavement rehabilitation using fractured concrete pavement techniques

The practice of fracturing rigid pavements in the development of pavement rehabilitation is used quite frequently. However, often the selection of a pavement fracture technique is made randomly, without understanding consequences of the method chosen. In some instances, this results in unsatisfactory performance of the rehabilitation design. This paper discusses three types of rigid pavement breaking used in pavement rehabilitation: rubblization, break and seat, and crack and seat. The characterization of actual fractured pavements utilizing nondestructive testing by falling weight deflectometer, as a part of pavement rehabilitation design is discussed. Determination of the most cost-effective design should consider costs associated with the structural benefit of the various types of pavement fracture. Other conditions, such as type of subgrade, and level of support provided may also have a major impact on the selection of a strategy which will perform properly. Implementing the construction is as critical as the use of appropriate design methods. Practical experience in the construction of these projects is also be discussed. The discussion includes specifications, equipment, and other pertinent factors for successful construction.