Early-Age Performance Evaluation of Jointed Plain Concrete Pavements Resurfaced with Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement

Abstract

Addressing the escalating maintenance costs of deteriorated jointed plain concrete pavements (JPCP), this study explores the rehabilitation of aged JPCP using bonded continuously reinforced concrete pavements (CRCP) overlay. Drawing lessons from past implementations in Georgia (I-75 and I-85) and Texas (US 75 Sherman), it highlights the gap in the current understanding of CRCP overlays on existing JPCP. The research introduces a recent implementation of CRCP overlay on a JPCP section of US 82 (Loop 286) in Paris, Texas that was over 40 years old. Early performance evaluation of 5-in. CRCP overlay on 9-in. JPCP indicates a significant insulating effect, reducing temperature variations and joint movements in the JPCP layer. Key findings included: 1) good bonding between CRCP and JPCP interface when concrete with reasonable workability was placed, while quite poor bonding when concrete with excessive slump was placed; 2) considerable reduction in slab deflections by placing 5-in CRCP overlay; 3) a significant level of reflection cracking in CRCP at existing transverse contraction joints; and 4) sawcut, except in the transition zone, is not desirable. These encouraging and satisfactory results indicate the applicability of bonded CRCP overlay as a viable rehabilitation option for old JPCP. However, the long-term performance effects from the surface condition, surface preparation, along with construction operations and concrete properties need further investigation.