Use of Steel Fiber–Reinforced Rubberized Concrete for Roadway Intersections in Cold Regions: Alaska

Abstract

In cold regions, many challenges are faced when using portland cement concrete (PCC), but with the inclusion of new technologies such as steel fibers and crumb rubber, efficient construction is possible. Steel fiber–reinforced rubberized concrete (SFRRC) was thoroughly tested in the lab; more investigation is required both in the lab and in the field. This research investigation of SFRRC was conducted using wheel-tracker rut and freeze-thaw laboratory testing procedures. The wheel-tracker results showed significant rutting improvement compared with asphalt. The freeze-thaw testing of SFRRC showed significant resistance to cracking and compressive strength loss compared with standard PCC. An experimental cast-in-place panel was installed and subjected to traffic with little sign of wear. Afterward, precast panels were designed and placed in a high-traffic urban arterial to determine rutting, freeze-thaw resistance, construction methods, and life-cycle cost.