materials

Evaluating Thin Whitetopping Test Section in Arizona

Objective
Implement a new concrete mix design that utilizes recycled plastic fibers for added strength and durability.
Methodology
Construct an in service highway exit ramp using several variations of the fiber modified concrete. Conduct several types of mechanical and thermal tests to determine several important properties of each mix. Monitor that subsurface temperature and field performance for several [...]

Pervious Concrete Construction Testing

Objective
To better understand the mechanical, thermal and storm water performance of pervious concrete located in a hot arid climate.
Methodology
Test the compressive and flexural strength of pervious concrete samples during and after lot construction. Install temperature and moisture sensors within a pervious concrete parking lot system for several months.
Significance
This was the first pervious concrete parking lot [...]

Cool Roof Energy Study

Objective
Evaluate the economic and environmental performance of a cool roof renovation project of a large commercial facility located in North Phoenix.
Methodology
Monitor roof surface and ceiling temperatures, meteorological information and building energy use data. Develop computer energy model to run simulations to estimate the changes in building energy use. Compare the data collection and modeling results [...]

U-haul Permeable Parking Lot Evaluation

Objective
Determine the infiltration and urban heat island mitigation performance of several design variations of a GravelPave2™ at large commercial parking lot in Gilbert, Arizona.
Methodology
Constructed eight hydraulically isolated, 0% slope, sections each containing different designs variations that meet the 100 year 2 hour storm event infiltration requirements. Measure and monitor infiltration rates within the pavement. Measure [...]

ASU Art Museum visitor parking lot

Location: Tempe, AZ
Status: Completed
Parking is at a premium at ASU, especially at the ASU Art Museum. So, when what little parking we have is further reduced by flooding, the problem escalates. The NCE is working with CEMEX USA, Progressive Concrete Works, Inc. and the Arizona Cement Association to replace a conventional asphalt parking lot with [...]