PART IV: Summary of Comments - SCOR/RAC

PART IV: Summary of Comments17-May-10Reviewer Comments Distribution of RatingsItem #109:E-04Modulus-based Quality Control in Culvert BackfillInstallation(17)(46)NR 0 1 2 3 4 5SCOR 2 2 4 9RAC 1 9 4 11 17 5 2Standing Committee on Research■ This appears to be similar to proposals and research undertaken in the past. It is not evident that additional research onmodulus-based quality control should be confined specifically to culvert backfill. Similar research is undergoing forsubgrade and it should not be any different for pipe backfill except few logistics which could be added after thoseresearch are complete.■ Agree with AASHTO subcommittee comments.■ [Rating: 2] While we agree with many aspects of the statement, it is not clear if there is a problem in the design or failureof culverts or the road above due to questionable soil stiffness/modulus values.Research Advisory Committee■ Soil modulus has to be tied to a stress state. None of the available field equipment can do this.■ Very good medium term research topic(should procter density be used for granular matls)■ Has little promise in advancing an area that is needed and does not address issues that have high risk in transportation■ The issue of quality control with culvert backfill is a definite issue; however, a different tool measuring a differentproperty does not really address the root problem which is poor construction techniques. There is some merit tofurthering the current research that would allow greater confidence in these newer/improved field measuring tools.Other■ [Rating: 3] Nuclear densometers are safe and efficient with a proven track record of results. We should avoidinflammatory language when discussing them. Their use in the field for embankments and pipe installation is wellproven. Several of the alternative gauges mentioned have poor records of accurate measurements through many studies.Item #110:D-14Reduced Energy and Carbon Footprints for SustainablePaving-Grade Concrete(17)(46)NR 0 1 2 3 4 5SCOR 2 5 1 6 2 1RAC 8 12 7 15 3 4Standing Committee on Research■ Sustainability is getting lot of deserved attention. Byproducts and recycled materials that can deliver the specifiedproduct and at the same time be beneficial to the environment would be desirable.■ Develop as a synthesis■ Need a tool for life-cycle assessment, which is going to be very useful in the future as carbon footprint will certainlybecome one of the design criteria.■ Iowa already uses 40% replacement with slag and fly ash■ I do not see the importance of this one.■ [Rating: 3] The problem statement needs more focus as there are numerous recycled and byproduct materials available. Asynthesis on the types of materials available, their geographical distribution, appropriate applications and known issuesmay be a better first step to guide more focused research.Research Advisory Committee■ Suggest combining with 2011-D-13IV-80