Evaluation of the Benefits of Diamond Grinding of CRCP

This report outlines the testing and evaluation of a continuously reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP) on IH35W near Fort Worth rehabilitated using diamond grinding instead of applying an asphalt overlay to extend the serviceability of the old concrete pavement. Surface macrotexture, skid, roughness and noise testing was done prior to the diamond grinding to establish reference levels for comparison. After grinding, the macrotexture, skid, roughness and noise testing of the surface was repeated after 4, 9, and 15 months to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of this rehabilitation strategy. Statistical analyses of the data collected were done to investigate the change in surface properties with diamond grinding and how the macrotexture, skid, roughness, and noise of the surface changed over time. The influence of pre-existing surface condition as well as traffic load and speed on the deterioration of the diamond-ground surface was also investigated. The study indicates the benefit of diamond grinding as a rehabilitation strategy for enhancing the functionality of aged CRCP but extended monitoring of the diamond-ground sections is recommended to better define the serviceability, service life and benefit/cost ratio of this strategy.