TxDOT Research Library - TxDOT Research Project

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Update Seal Coat Application Rate Design Method

seal coating operation, credit https://www.flickr.com/photos/grand_canyon_nps/4927908559

What Was the Need?

A successful seal coat is one that provides over the design life, adequate surface texture and seals the pavement structure from water intrusion. There are design methods for seal coat application rates, however these design methods have been around since the 1960's and have not been updated. TxDOT typically uses experience to determine seal coat application rates. Unfortunately [due to rare use] the experience level is variable and loss of experienced personnel can lead to increased problems until experience is gained. Some of these problems are flushing, bleeding and rock loss. There are problems with underseals as well as surface seals. Poor underseals can lead to base failures and cause hot mix rutting.

Contractors have also lost experience and in general will have less experienced personnel on small quantity seal coat projects. The disconnect from how the plan rates are established and the actual construction application rates can cause disputes on projects. An established design method can remove risk and result in better performing seal coat projects.

What's the Solution?

Project objectives include evaluating current seal coat application rate design methods used by TxDOT district and evaluating materials used in seal coat and their influence on application rates. Researchers will propose a new design procedure or modified existing procedure.

Research Benefits

Better design methods will result in fewer problems and the the seal coat will be successful over its service life.

Project Number

0-6989

Status

Completed

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Project Details

Start Date

9/1/2018

End Date

11/30/2019

Performing Institution(s)

Texas A & M Transportation Institute (TTI)

Research Team

RS: Darlene Goehl

Sponsor

Project Manager

Wade Odell

Contract Specialist

Patti Dathe

TxDOT Advisor

Enad Mahmoud, MTD
Arash Motamed, MTD
Sergio Cantu, PHR
Jace Lee, BRY
James Robbins, BRY
Shannon Ramos, LFK

Amount Funded

$125,000

Source

RFP 19-157 Update Seal Coat Application Rate Design Method

Publications from this Project

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Functional Area

Construction, Maintenance and Materials

Index Terms

Design methods
Pavements
Road construction
Seal coats
Undersealing

Lead University

TTI

Researcher

Goehl, Darlene

TxDOT District

MTD
PHR
BRY
LFK

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Record Added:

11/7/2018

Record Updated:

1/12/2023 5:31 AM EST

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