Rubberized Chip Seal Outperforms Conventional Rock Chip Seal in Field Tests February 19, 2019 - Quick and inexpensive chip seals as a pavement maintenance surface are widely used. Researchers for Missouri DOT tested using crumb rubber from recycled tires as portions of chip seal aggregate. Results showed “remarkable performance” in aggregate retention, and after one year of use, the sample chip seal sections outperformed trap rock chip seal in all areas examined.
Read the research report: Field Implementation of Rubberized Chip Seal, December 2018
MnDOT Studies Effects of Concrete Grinding Residue on Roadside Soil February 8, 2019 - A new study from Minnesota DOT investigated how concrete grinding residue (CGR) impacted physical and chemical properties and plant growth. Researchers found that areas receiving CGR applications in the past did not negatively affect soil quality and plant growth.
Read the research report: Concrete Grinding Residue: Its Effect on Roadside Vegetation and Soil Properties, January 2019
Colorado’s Degree Program on Maintenance Garners National Attention January 31, 2019 - A new associate's degree program in maintenance was featured in the June 2018 issue of APWA Reporter.
The article "Highway maintenance management goes to college" discusses the joint efforts of Colorado DOT and Front Rage Community College to develop the first-in-the-nation two-year associates of applied science degree program in highway maintenance management.
This article outlines the program curriculum and the anticipated benefits to those who earn this degree as well as to their employers.
(Image source: APWA Reporter)