Laboratory and Mechanistic Evaluation of Influence of the Degree of Compaction on the Performance of Cement-Stabilized Full-Depth Reclamation Mixes

Abstract

Full-depth reclamation (FDR) is emerging as a sustainable solution for rehabilitating deteriorated pavements, particularly on rural and low-volume roads. However, inconsistent field performance, often attributed to inadequate compaction, has raised concerns about its long-term effectiveness. This study investigates the influence of the degree of compaction (DoC) on the mechanical and fatigue performance of cement-stabilized FDR mixes. Reclaimed pavement materials were blended to achieve the target gradation and stabilized using 5% Ordinary Portland Cement. Specimens were compacted at five DoC levels (94% to 106% of modified Proctor density) and tested for unconfined compressive strength (UCS), ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), flexural strength, and flexural modulus. Additionally, fatigue performance was assessed through laboratory beam fatigue testing and mechanistic analysis. Results showed significant gains in strength and fatigue life with increased compaction, UCS improved by up to 154%, UPV (a measure of material quality and homogeneity) by over 50%, and fatigue life rose from 23 million standard-axles (msa) at 94% to 214 msa at 106% DoC. However, achieving 106% DoC may pose practical challenges in the field. The study highlights that a compaction range of 100%–103% is both feasible and sufficient to yield substantial performance benefits, emphasizing the critical need for stringent compaction control in FDR projects.

Keywords

full depth reclamation degree of compaction cement-stabilized base fatigue life ultrasonic pulse velocity

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