Recent Advancements in Sustainable and Safe Transportation Infrastructure - Vol. 1

Admixtures are incorporated into concrete to enhance its workability. The setting time of concrete significantly influences its workability. Due to the increasing demand for ready-mix concrete, research for diverse admixtures offering various benefits is crucial. Retarders are generally used to delay the setting time of ready-mix concrete. Organic acids and their derivatives show promise as a viable retarder for ready-mix concrete. Gluconic acid (GA) is an organic acid derived from the oxidation of glucose, can be used to delay the setting time and enhance the workability of ready-mix concrete. This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation conducted to evaluate the potential of gluconic acid as a retarder in concrete. The effect of GA dosages 0.02–0.1% (by weight of cement) on the setting time, workability, compressive strength and water absorption was investigated. The results revealed that addition of 0.1% GA prolonged the setting time and enhanced the workability of concrete without any adverse effect on the strength and durability.

This study investigates the combined effects of incorporating rice husk ash (RHA) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as additives to bolster the strength parameters of concrete. Concrete, being one of the most widely utilized construction materials, constantly faces the need for improvements in strength and durability. RHA, a by-product of agricultural processing, and MWCNTs, a novel nanomaterial renowned for its exceptional mechanical properties, are being examined for their potential as reinforcing agents in concrete. The experimental investigation entails the fabrication of concrete specimens with varying proportions of MWCNTs (ranging from 0.025 to 0.125%) alongside a fixed proportion of RHA at 20%. These specimens are subjected to comprehensive testing to evaluate parameters such as compressive strength, flexural strength, and tensile strength. The results highlight the positive influence of RHA and MWCNTs on the mechanical properties of concrete, showcasing enhanced strength and potential applications in sustainable construction practices. This research contributes to advancing concrete technology by proposing an eco-friendly approach to enhancing the performance of concrete, thereby addressing the growing demand for resilient and sustainable infrastructure materials.

To improve a structure’s mechanical properties or performance, mechanically stabilized embankments and geosynthetic-reinforced structures are used due to their affordability and efficiency. Civil engineering structures that incorporate geosynthetic materials are referred to as geosynthetic-reinforced structures. Nevertheless, there are some scenarios in which they can fail, such as withdrawal of the geosynthetics. The pullout test is a typical procedure used to assess the strength of the interface between a geosynthetic material (such as polymeric strips, geotextiles, geogrids, or geomembranes) and the surrounding soil or other materials with which it comes into contact. Many researchers have carried out studies that concentrate on the variety of parameters, including variations in the reinforcement geometry, fill material, and its moisture content, compaction, and loading conditions, as well as variations in the pullout material and pullout process. Useful from the point of view of sustainability studies on construction and demolition waste material as fill material is also conducted. This document provides a thorough summary of important research findings from several studies investigating the effects of changing different factors on pullout test results. The thorough investigation leads to the conclusion that, with the assistance of existing research, an appropriate pullout technique and test conditions must be developed.

The history of Light Weight Concrete spans over two millennia, yet it still has ongoing upgrades in its technology. The paper consists of a retroactive approach, which shapes out thought in manifold practicalities, that have been covered by Light Weight Concrete, since the twentieth century. Even though Light Weight Concrete is well known, and has its applicative potential proven through multiple experiments and tests over the last century. Yet, today we witness precariousness and unpredictability in its use and applications. It is thus, Light Weight Concrete in its various forms and mixes have been studied in a wide lens, especially focusing on the present-day combinations, after great number of trial and error, and the practice of designing its mixes after the study of each of the mixes. A particular obstacle faced during the design of the Light Weight Aggregate Concrete had been to blend its mixes, during its production, as their properties often differ quite a lot from conventional concrete. Hence, those properties, which have potentially been part of anomalies and doubts, have been highlighted, such as the appellation and informatory data inferred from these experiments. The recurring issues related to the mix design, during the production of the Light Weight Concrete have been clarified and its unintended side effects or by-products have been briefly elaborated, by performing tests, on specimens of mix designs, that were cast as part of this project. A detailed scrutiny was made and its perspective was provided, based on the information given in the prevailing concrete benchmarks, related to the physical and structural features of moulded Light Weight Concrete and are addressed with regards to some unintended consequences seen.

In the domain of construction and sustainable building practices, the persistent issue of effectively utilizing recycled aggregates (RAs) has been a subject of considerable concern and research. One enduring challenge has been the removal of adhered mortar from RA, a crucial step in enhancing their suitability for reuse in concrete pavements addressing this challenge. The central objective is to investigate the efficacy of this innovative approach in improving the quality and characteristics of recycled aggregates for subsequent use in concrete production. The method begins with immersing RA in Acetic acid to remove existing adhered mortar, followed by mechanical treatment in the Los Angeles Apparatus to further eliminate any residual mortar. The concrete mixing process employs a two-stage technique and includes 20% fly ash to enhance the surface texture of the treated recycled aggregate (TRA). The study comprehensively assesses mechanical properties and durability, including compressive strength, flexural strength, rapid chloride permeability Test (RCPT), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The research findings indicate that the concrete samples exhibit satisfactory compressive and flexural strengths. However, a noticeable decreasing trend in these strengths as the replacement percentage of TRA increases. RCPT results suggest a moderate level of durability across all tested samples. SEM analysis reveals notable improvements in concrete properties, particularly in terms of enhanced voids and pore characteristics. Overall, this hybrid treatment approach could contribute to sustainable construction practices by optimizing the use of recycled materials while maintaining concrete strength and durability.

This study evaluated the thickness, percentage reduction of thickness, cost analysis, and percentage cost reduction of different layers of flexible pavement and overall pavements, taking fly ash as an additive and liquid alkaline as an activator for subgrade soil strengthening. The investigation opportunity of the study involves moderation of soil by incorporating various percentages of fly ash and a liquid alkaline activator (Na2SiO3.9H2O (1 M): NaOH (10 M)) in 70:30 ratio as the optimum liquid alkaline activator content (OLC), assessment of upgradation in soil characteristics, pavement design underneath 30MSA and 50MSA design traffic, and cost evaluation. In this procedure total five soil samples were considered. The research showed that fly ash and OLC used in natural soil for subgrade offered less thickness and lower construction costs than the natural soil subgrade pavement sections under both traffic conditions. The concept obtained in this study could give paramount intuition to engineers, proponents, policymakers, road authorities, and other collaborators in evaluating different pavement options that clinch transportation infrastructure’s profit-making and sustainable development.

In recent times, there has been a growing trend toward using reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), in asphalt mixtures to promote sustainability. In the present study, RAP has been used in micro-surfacing. Micro-surfacing is a pavement preservation technique used to extend the lifespan of roads and improve their surface characteristics. It involves the application of a thin layer of asphalt emulsion mixed with aggregate and additives to the existing road surface. This mixture is then spread over the road using specialized equipment. In India, micro-surfacing is increasingly being adopted as a cost-effective solution for maintaining and rehabilitating roads. This study utilized a single type of limestone aggregates for micro-surfacing, ensuring uniformity. Type III aggregate gradation using International Slurry Surfacing Association (ISSA) A-143 guidelines was utilized in this study. The asphalt emulsion, comprising 63% asphalt and 37% emulsifiers, water, polymer, and acid, underwent various tests alongside its residue. Recycled Asphalt Pavement (RAP) from a single source was analyzed and it contains 3.5% binder content. Mix designs adhered to ISSA A-143 guidelines, with two types of mixes created: one using 100% virgin aggregates (VAs) and another with 40% RAP and 60% VA. Comparing the results revealed a 3% decrease in optimum emulsion content for mixtures with 40% RAP. While incorporating RAP did not notably affect mixing time, samples containing RAP displayed lower cohesion values at 30 and 60 min, indicating a slower setting rate. Overall, the result shows that the RAP-containing mixtures met the permissible limits outlined in the ISSA A-143 guideline.

Utilizing recycled plastic waste materials in road pavements is currently seen as a favorable choice for sustainability and a compelling choice for improving performance. The disposal of substantial amounts of used plastic bags is an environmental issue, as they are classified as non-biodegradable materials. Hence, it is crucial to discover practical applications for the increasing volumes of this garbage. The main contributions include of creating innovative bitumen composites that integrate recycled plastics and geopolymers, improving building methods, and devising techniques to efficiently recycle and repurpose current road materials. The research showcases substantial enhancements in sustainability and cost-effectiveness by combining plastic and geopolymer technology. The current study investigates the possible benefits of adding plastics and geopolymers to bitumen to improve the qualities of the bituminous mixture. The present investigation utilized geopolymer material at different weight percentages (6, 8, and 10%) as an addition in modified bitumen containing plastic. The physical characteristics of these geopolymer-modified bitumen binders were assessed using penetration tests, softening point tests, and elastic recovery tests. A comparative analysis of the binders was conducted to assess their viscosity, which was evaluated using the Brookfield Rotational Viscometer (RV). The modified bitumen exhibited higher viscosity compared to ordinary bitumen. Research indicates that the addition of geopolymer to traditional bitumen enhances its viscosity and overall performance. An extensive laboratory investigation was conducted to assess the impact of various geopolymers on the plastic modified mixture.

The present work experimentally investigate self-compacting concrete (SCC) of M35 grade for workability and compressive strength by using two different brand of cement. The type-I and type-II brand of cement are Birla OPC-53 and Ultra Tech OPC-53. SCC is runny fluid mix it does not require any external vibration while placing in the formwork. The fluidity of SCC is achieved by using fine aggregate, cementitious material, chemical admixture and super-plasticizer. Due to high volume of cement and chemical admixture used in it increases the cost of SCC. To overcome this problem, ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) can be used as an alternative to cement, which acquires the same cementitious properties as that of cement. The effective utilization of GGBS in SCC is indirectly aiding waste reduction, reduction in carbon foot print and maintaining ecological balance in the environmental system. In the present study, the fresh properties of SCC are measured as flow value, L-box and plastic density. The compressive strength is measured at 3, 7, 14 and 28 days in moist curing for water-to-cement ratio 0.34 in harden state. Substitution level of GGBS in the concrete is kept at 35%. It is noted that the compressive strength of type-I cement is more than type-II cement.

Cold Bituminous Mix (CBM) is an environmentally and economically advantageous alternative to traditional Hot Bituminous Mix, despite its inferior mechanical properties such as low early life strength, lengthy curing periods, and coating issues. The study aims to investigate factors such as the effect of the combination of non-conventional fillers and curing time on the fatigue behaviour of CBM. To address the issues related to CBM, MoRTH gradation of DBM grade II is used for the mix preparation. Other physical properties of aggregate and emulsion tests were done as per the Bureau of Indian Standards to check the quality of the materials used in the mix and were well within limits. Analysis of the microstructure of filler using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray fluorescence results revealed the chemical composition of fillers, Combination of filler that was finalised were Combination 1 (MF 25%, AF 15%, FA 60%) and Combination 2 (MF 15%, AF 15%, FA 30%, RHA 40%). Mix preparation with modified filler combinations of non-traditional fillers and nominal mix, for a different curing period of (4, 7, 14, and 28-day effect) at 40 °C with 3 trials each for the different sets of tests to be done on fatigue performance. Performing indirect tensile tests and repeated load tests on the cylindrical specimen prepared on a Superpave gyratory compactor with dimensions of 100 mm diameter and 63.5 mm height and mix preparation as per IRC SP 100 (2014). Mix showed higher fatigue resistance with an increase in curing effect for modified mix with approximately 185% in comparison with nominal mix, where approximately 170% increase in fatigue life, and with approximately 29% increase due to the effect of fillers.

India has more than 95% of the roads with flexible pavements. Regular maintenance is needed as these roads can develop cracks over time due to traffic and weather. People in the industry always look for new and better ways to make these roads durable. Using Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) in flexible pavements is thus a solution. Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) is a waste material produced during the reconstruction and rehabilitation of old pavements and provides a practical solution to reduce the need for virgin aggregate and binder. However, due to the poor cracking performance of aged binders, the use of RAP in road pavements is limited. Using high percentages of RAP in hot mix asphalt (HMA) can lead to early pavement distress. This can be solved by rejuvenating the aged bitumen in RAP. Rejuvenators are additives or agents that are added to the bituminous mix to restore or enhance the properties of aged or recycled bitumen materials. Before the application, it is important to evaluate the performance of hot bituminous mixes prepared with high RAP contents. The usage of RAP in the pavement would reduce the usage of fresh aggregates and virgin binders, thus conserving natural resources. The study adopts waste engine oil (WEO) and waste transformer oil (WTO) as rejuvenators. The study aims to find the optimum binder content from conventional mixes. The study also evaluates the effect of rejuvenators and RAP contents on the volumetric properties of bituminous mixes. The study also aims to identify the type and optimum dosage of each rejuvenator required to improve the properties of the bituminous mixes and to obtain the optimum percentage of RAP to be used.

The construction sector faces challenges in meeting the increasing demand for bituminous pavements due to the limited availability of nonrenewable materials like aggregates and bitumen, necessitating the need for sustainable solutions. On the other hand, the requirement for high-quality materials for high-speed road networks highlights the need for modifying virgin bitumen. Lignin, a biopolymer abundant in wood biomass, emerges as a viable alternative that can partially replace virgin bitumen while also improving the mechanical strength and durability of bituminous mixtures. This review explores the rheological characteristics of asphalt modified with lignin, and mechanical parameters, providing insights into the possible benefits of lignin. Additionally, it comprehensively covers lignin attributes. This review presents a balanced analysis of the benefits and drawbacks of incorporating lignin into bituminous mixes, providing useful insights for sustainable asphalt technology. This review offers a roadmap for future research and development in the use of lignin-modified binders.

This bibliometric study collects and analyzes data to investigate the progression of research work on “Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) Aggregate” using the VOSviewer application as a mapping tool and Publish or Perish (PoP) as the reference manager application with Google Scholar as the source. The main aim is to analyze the growth and trends in research publications related to RAP aggregate, specifically focusing on its application in concrete. Studying published articles from 2000 to 2024 aims to analyze the research progression and discover different avenues for further investigation. This study shows how many articles get published based on the provided keyword. It also finds the most occurred keywords and highlights areas where more research is needed. This helps to assess new research for future studies on RAP aggregate. During the data search phase, employed the keywords “RAP Aggregate” as a guide to focus search results and streamline the mapping process. Out of the search results, 999 articles were found relevant in the predecided time frame for research materials. The analysis reveals a noticeable growth in articles on RAP aggregate over the past two decades. In conclusion, this bibliometric study highlights the advancement journey and trends in research on RAP aggregate in different fields. By identifying the growth in publication output and prevalent research themes, this study offers valuable insights into the current state of RAP aggregate research. As a result, this research serves as a valuable reference for scholars and practitioners interested in further understanding and applying RAP aggregate in concrete, while also encouraging the exploration of new avenues for research and development.

The process of soil stabilization involves enhancing the engineering properties of soil by altering it using physical or chemical means, thus improving its strength, bearing capacity, durability, etc. In this paper, an attempt is done to stabilize the locally available soil to be used for pavements, by randomly distributing palmyra fiber. Lime powder also was added to maintain the required consistency limits and to control the swelling behavior of the stabilized soil. Short palmyra fibers were used by maintaining the same aspect ratio, but the fiber contents were varied between 0.25 and 1.00% of the soil weight. It is observed that about 6% lime is required to control the Atterberg limits, and the same is effective in reducing the swelling behavior of the soil. The inclusion of randomly distributed palmyra fiber into the soil–lime mixture has generally improved the properties, including unconfined compressive strength and California bearing ratio. The mixture combinations were subjected to wet-dry durability cycles, and the addition of lime powder and palmyra fiber was observed to improve the durability. However, none of the tested combination could pass the durability test criteria. From the study, it is concluded that the palmyra fiber in short length can be randomly distributed in soil to improve its properties, with lime powder (if issues related swelling or consistency limits exist).

The increasing municipal solid waste (MSW) has been a growing issue for the last few decades. Plastic waste is a major contributor to MSW, which involves high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyurethane, low-density polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate, among which HDPE generates a large amount of waste. This paper aims to modify the base binder VG 30 with HDPE pyrolytic char and evaluate its rutting potential. The pyrolytic char is obtained from the pyrolysis of the HDPE plastic, and it was mixed with the base binder in proportions 5, 10, and 15% in a high-shear mixer to prepare HDPE char-modified binder. Physical testing, including rotational viscosity, tensile, softening point, and penetration tests, was carried out in the laboratory. A rolling thin film oven test (RTFOT) is used for testing the short-term aging (STA) of the binder. To evaluate the temperature and rutting susceptibility of the STA sample, the temperature sweep test and the multiple stress creep and recovery (MSCR) tests are conducted on a dynamic shear rheometer (DSR). The results show that the increasing content of HDPE char increases the stiffness and softening point of the modified bitumen, which leads to better stability and thermal resistance of binder. The HDPE char increases the temperature susceptibility of bitumen at high temperatures. The rutting susceptibility of the base binder is improved due to the addition of HDPE char, which affects extended road life. The modified binder also shows better suitability for higher traffic loading conditions compared to the base binder.

Shape of aggregate plays a crucial role in the volumetrics and mechanical behavior of dense hot mix asphalt (HMA). Shape indexes based on ratios of aggregate dimensions are generally recommended to restrict the presence of undesirably shaped aggregates in HMA. Suggesting an over-stringent limit on aggregate shape may result in mounting burden on natural resources. Therefore, criteria to reject aggregate that may be otherwise of sound quality should be carefully selected. In this paper, four different aggregates with varying strength properties were used to study the effect of different proportions (0, 30, 60 and 100%) of flaky or elongated (FE) aggregates on the volumetrics, aggregate breakage and resilient modulus (MR) of HMA. Effect of FE aggregates on volumetrics was studied through Marshall mix design process. It was observed that presence of FE aggregates up to 60% does not have any significant impact on volumetrics of HMA, especially optimum binder content (OBC) to reach design air voids. Aggregate breakage was higher for weaker aggregates and it increased with the increase in FE aggregate proportion. Presence of FE aggregates up to 60% was found to increase the MR of HMA by at least 50% except when weak aggregate was used. Results indicate that placing specification limit based on shape index that restricts the percent of FE aggregates less than 60% may be relaxed, provided the aggregates have good strength. Superpave recommendation of maximum 10% of aggregates greater than 5:1 max–min dimensional ratio was found more appropriate for restricting aggregate shape proportion in HMA.

Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) has gained popularity for its sustainability and cost-effectiveness in road construction, reducing natural materials and material costs. However, the high variability in RAP, the complexities associated with the processing of RAP, and the lack of reliable evaluation methods limit the usage of high RAP content in hot mix asphalt construction. There is an increasing need to enhance the recycled mix quality and RAP utilization which may be easily implementable for the field practitioners. RILEM TC237-SIB recommended a simple protocol for RAP characterization, focusing on basic tests such as gradation, fragmentation, and cohesion tests. The cohesion test helps to assess the RAP binder activation by capturing the material sensitivity to different conditioning temperatures (100, 120, and 140 °C). The current study evaluated the performance of 100% RAP mixes rejuvenated with waste engine oil (WEO). WEO is proven to improve the pavement’s fatigue life by restoring the fundamental physical properties of aged asphalt, such as the phase angle and complex moduli. Hence, the RAP mixes used for the study were rejuvenated by adding rejuvenator at dosages of 0, 5, 9, 12, and 15%. The cracking susceptibility of the mixes was evaluated using the IDEAL-CT test and the optimum rejuvenator dosage was identified as 9% at 100 °C, 5% at 120 °C, and 9% at 140 °C. Further, an attempt was made to check the feasibility of using the simple cohesion test as an indicator of RAP mix performance by comparing the cohesion test results with the IDEAL-CT values.

This study evaluates the performance of warm mix asphalt (WMA) incorporating Zycotherm SP, a chemical additive designed to reduce asphalt mixing and compaction temperatures. Comparative analyses between WMA and conventional hot mix asphalt (HMA) across different gradations—BC I and BC II—and temperature ranges were conducted to assess environmental and mechanical benefits. The research tested aggregate and binder properties, determined optimum binder content, and evaluated volumetric properties, along with moisture sensitivity and fatigue characteristics of asphalt mixes. Utilizing Zycotherm SP resulted in a 20–30 °C reduction in production temperatures, significantly lowering energy consumption and emissions, thereby addressing environmental concerns. The findings demonstrate that WMA with Zycotherm SP maintains or enhances stability, flow, and bulk density at these reduced temperatures compared to HMA, substantiating its effectiveness in improving pavement performance while reducing environmental impact. The study confirms that WMA can achieve desired mechanical properties and durability at lower temperatures, suggesting potential for longer pavement life and reduced maintenance. By meeting and exceeding traditional HMA performance standards, this research supports wider adoption of WMA technologies in road construction to achieve sustainable and durable pavement solutions. The integration of Zycotherm SP not only aids in compliance with strict environmental regulations but also offers significant operational advantages, advocating for its broader implementation in the asphalt industry.

This research investigates the incorporation of the Koradi thermal power plant’s fly ash (FA) into roller-compacted concrete pavements (RCCP). The study focuses on determining the optimum moisture content (OMC), maximum dry density (MDD), and mechanical properties of RCCP mixes with varying FA replacements. Cement was replaced with FA at 25 and 50%. A relationship between the moisture content and dry density was established, indicating a relationship between the FA content and variations in the OMC and MDD. With an increase in the FA content, the OMC rises because of the finer particle size and larger surface area of FA. At the same time, the MDD drops because of the lower specific gravity of FA particles. Compressive, flexural, and splitting tensile strength tests were performed on RCCP samples that have been cured for 7 and 28 days. The findings indicate a significant decline in strength after seven days of curing, especially with higher FA concentration, in contrast to the strength observed after 28 days of curing. This behaviour can be explained by the relatively slower pozzolanic reaction of FA particles compared to the hydration process of cement particles.

In the construction of roads, soil is commonly utilised as a fill material to support soft soil layers. The unconfined compression strength (UCS) and California bearing ratio (CBR) scores are key parameters. The California Division of Highways in 1928 developed the California bearing ratio method, an empirical technique for designing flexible pavements for roads, railways, and airfields. The subgrade for the pavement serves as the base, and to maximise its strength, it must be well-compacted. The soil’s CBR value is linked to the strength of the subgrade. Conducting the CBR test is labour-intensive and time-consuming, requiring the testing of moulded soil samples. Obtaining accurate CBR values for the soil is always a challenge for engineers. The soil type and other soil properties influence the CBR values. This study aims to establish correlations using adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) analysis between various soil index properties and CBR values to obtain more accurate CBR values. The results are satisfactory, showing that the soil’s CBR value is influenced by factors such as organic content, sand fraction, plastic limit (PL), clay fraction, plasticity index, liquid limit (LL), etc. It has been observed that the predicted values align with the experimental values, indicating a strong correlation for CBR.

This investigation is conducted as a case study in the open cast mine area (Majri). The scientific evaluation and technical approach to the potential use of in-mine quarry dust to replace cohesive non-swelling (CNS) soil to be used in the base/subbase section for the by-pass road construction along the periphery of the mine area. According to the cross-section of the road, the requisite thickness of the sand (non-swelling) layer is 0.3 m. It is a well-known fact that in Central India, the base or subbase material availability is skewed due to the large deposits of black cotton soil, which is considered problematic because of its swell-shrink behavior with changes in moisture content. The codal provisions demand constructing a base or subbase layer of the road using cohesive-frictional material of non-swelling nature. The study includes detailed characterization of pavement geomaterials like heavy compaction test (HCT), specific gravity test, particle size analysis, California bearing ratio (CBR), permeability test, and bulking of sand as per the prevailing specifications/guidelines of the codes. The obtained results are compared with the material selection criteria of MORTH and IRC SP:20 (2002). Optimum moisture content (OMC), maximum dry density (MDD), specific gravity, California bearing ratio (CBR), and permeability of the quarry dust are within the permissible limit. To summarize, the in-mine quarry dust test results qualify the base/subbase material requirements to be used as a potential replacement for sand/non-swelling material.

The Indian construction sector has become one of the fastest growing industries in the recent years, and is increasingly confronted with significant challenges. These include the rapid depletion of natural resources such as sand, stone, and aggregates. On the other hand, huge amounts of construction and demolition waste (CDW), especially concrete aggregates are also generated. In the current scenario, the CDW is mostly dumped into landfills posing serious environmental concerns. The present study investigates whether CDW can serve as a sustainable alternative to natural aggregates in Indian road construction. The study explores the impact of pre-treating CDW with silica fume solution (SFS) and sodium silicate solution (SSS) on its mechanical properties for pavement applications. Solutions of SFS and SSS with varying concentrations by weight of CDW were prepared for treatment purposes. CDW samples were soaked in varying concentrations of SFS (i.e., 5, 10, 15, and 20%) and SSS (i.e., 6, 8, 10, and 12%). The effectiveness of these treatment methods was evaluated through a series of standard tests (viz., water absorption, aggregate impact value, aggregate crushing strength, Los Angeles abrasion value, slake durability index, and California bearing ratio). Based up on the obtained results, 15% of silica fume solution and 10% of sodium silicate solution were found to be the optimum limit for CDW treatment.

This study investigates the strength parameter of a novel composite material termed Lightweight Cemented Soil (LCS), which is a mixture of Black Cotton Soil (BCS) reinforced with cement and expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads of varying densities. The BCS is stabilized with a constant cement content, maintaining a cement-to-BCS (C/BCS) ratio of 5%. EPS beads are introduced into the mix at two different densities and two distinct mix ratios (EPS/BCS) by mass. Initially, these mixtures’ optimum moisture content and maximum dry density were determined using standard proctor tests. Subsequently, the Unconfined Compression Test (UCS) and California Bearing Ratio Test (CBR) were performed at the identified maximum dry density values. Results reveal that the EPS density and the EPS/BCS mix ratio significantly influence the composite material’s density, UCS, and CBR values. The simultaneous variation in EPS density and EPS content in this study highlights its novelty. The significant reduction in overall density achieved by incorporating EPS beads into the cement-stabilized BCS suggests that this composite material is ideal for constructing lightweight embankments, particularly in areas with poor load-bearing subgrades. This research contributes to developing lightweight construction materials with improved load-bearing capacities.

The construction industry across the globe is facing scarcity of natural building materials due to limited availability and a ban on the extraction. But the world’s population is increasing at exponential level, hence due to create extra space to accommodate this population, structures are going under deconstruction or demolition to build more space, resulting in the generation of a large quantity of construction and demolition (C&D) waste. Since illegal disposal and improper waste management will result in environmental degradation, it is necessary to manage it scientifically. This study aims to quantify the amount of construction and demolition (C&D) waste generated and assess the effects of substituting recycled concrete aggregate (RCA), both coarse and fine, with natural aggregates in manufacturing medium density traffic paver blocks. The basic characteristics, i.e., compressive strength, water absorption, and abrasion resistance, were investigated as per the guidelines given in IS 15658:2006. From the laboratory investigation, RCA both coarse and fine can replace up to 50% natural coarse aggregate (NCA) and river sand.

The significant rise in the number of vehicles and their heavier loads led to a deterioration of the road surfaces. This research project focuses on evaluating and restoring a highway that faced rutting issues due to factors like heavy vehicles, prolonged loading periods, and steep longitudinal slopes among others. The depths of ruts measured at points ranged from 40 to 50 mm surpassing the limit of 20 mm by a considerable margin. Upon inspection of the road segment, it was noted that the granular and subgrade layers were unaffected with rutting failure confined to the bituminous layers. Consequently, it was recommended to rehabilitate by milling the layers and applying a durable and high-strength wearing course above. Utilizing a Cement Grouted Bituminous Macadam (CGBM) technology as a flexible or composite layer proved effective in providing significantly higher load resistance compared to traditional bituminous mixes. The application of CGBM successfully met its purpose without any failures after a year, in operation.

Over the past few decades, India has seen a rise in vehicular traffic, which has led to the need for the development of extended road networks. However, due to improper road maintenance strategies, pavements are failing and deteriorating before the end of their design life. A pavement’s ability to support the traffic load and withstand environmental stresses depends on the quality of its surface characteristics. Surface characteristics, including pavement distress like potholes, edge subsidence, pavement cracking, and roughness, affect the performance of the pavement and the traffic stream characteristics that cause an increase in travel time and road user costs. This study, therefore, investigates the impact of pavement surface conditions on traffic speed, the most important traffic stream characteristic. The study focuses on two main pavement surface characteristics, namely pavement distress and roughness, and their effect on traffic stream characteristics, specifically speed. The study conducted data collection of road geometry, pavement surface characteristics, and traffic data from six different road sections. The speed data was collected using TIRTL under free-flow conditions, and the 50th and 85th percentile speeds (V50 and V85) were calculated for various vehicle classes. Regression analysis models were developed to establish the relationship between percentile speeds and independent variables such as Pavement Condition Index (PCI), carriageway width, shoulder widths, and percentage of pavement distress. It is found that road roughness has a more significant impact on traffic operational performance than road geometry and pavement distress. Additionally, the study revealed that pavement surface characteristics have a negligible impact on the speeds of heavy vehicles, such as light commercial vehicles and medium commercial vehicles compared to other classes of vehicles.

Pavement maintenance optimization ensures that road networks remain in good condition and minimize the need for costly repairs and reconstruction by strategically allocating resources and scheduling maintenance activities. This paper proposes a network-level maintenance optimization of pavement for National Highways in Tamil Nadu, India. Pavement Condition Index (PCI) is used to analyze the present condition of sections under study. Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) model is used to forecast the pavement deterioration rate for the analysis period. Optimization is done for both non-clustered and clustered models in General Algebraic Modelling System (GAMS) software using Mixed Integer Programming (MIP). The objective function is to maximize the effectiveness of maintenance expressed as benefit area under the deterioration curve. The constraints are related to budget and choice of maintenance. Results of optimization for non-clustered and clustered models were compared in terms of the benefit area.

Sustainable road design and construction represent critical components of modern infrastructure development, aiming to mitigate environmental impacts, improve societal well-being, and promote economic growth. This review paper gives a comprehensive overview of the principles, practices, and evolving trends in sustainable road materials, construction, and sustainable rating systems. It focuses on the integration of eco-friendly practices, resource efficiency, and resilience against climate change impacts across the lifespan of road infrastructure. The utilization of sustainable materials, such as reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), recycled concrete aggregates (RCA), industrial by-products, and renewable energy integration is explored. The paper also discusses the Transportation Sustainable Rating System, providing a framework for selecting suitable sustainability rating systems. It addresses challenges and opportunities in sustainable road construction, including initial cost implications and the necessity for supportive policies, while guiding toward a more sustainable future. In conclusion, this review paper underscores the pivotal role of sustainable road design and construction in tackling environmental challenges, advancing social equity, and propelling economic development.

The present study deals with the evaluation of pavement condition based on users’ perception. A structured questionnaire was prepared, and data was collected from users of Pune about their socioeconomic status, travel characteristics, and pavement condition. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted, and three factors denoting flexible perception, quality consciousness, and positive perception were finalized as the confirmed factors having eigenvalue of more than one. Then, the clusters for socioeconomic and travel characteristics are conducted to evaluate the preferences. The results showed that 75% of the females are belonging to Cluster 1 denoting that female drivers value comfortable travel conditions and seamless driving experiences. Further, the perception among different groups showed significant differences for the perception about the road conditions. Similar differences were observed for other parameters too.

Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) has gained popularity in flexible pavement construction due to benefits like reduced emissions, lower production temperatures, improved workability, enhanced durability, minimized worker exposure, energy and cost savings, and sustainability. This research addresses the critical issue of asphalt rutting, examining rutting performance in asphalt mixtures with a focus on both conventional and non-conventional WMA technologies. The study includes conventional WMA, such as Zycotherm and non-conventional WMA like Rice Bran Wax (RBW), assessing RBW as a potential additive. A comparative analysis between traditional Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) and WMAs evaluates the impact of reduced production temperatures on rutting performance. The advanced numerical simulation method, the Hirsch model, is employed to analyze rutting behavior, supported by experimental validation. Material characterization examines the influence of binders, aggregates, and additives like Zycotherm and RBW on rutting resistance, considering environmental factors like temperature and moisture content. By integrating numerical simulations with practical experiments, the study aims to deepen understanding of rutting mechanisms and contribute to resilient pavement solutions. The investigation consists of two phases: analytical and experimental. The analytical phase uses the Hirsch method to model asphalt mixture behavior under loading, while the experimental phase conducts laboratory tests to assess rutting and fatigue performance. The results inform the development of design guidelines for asphalt mixtures resistant to rutting and fatigue, thereby improving pavement durability and lifespan. The analytical investigation employing the Hirsch model offers a numerical approach to simulate material behavior under loading conditions.

This research investigates the performance evaluation of Cold In-Place Recycled Pavement (CIRP) in Kerala. Detailed pavement evaluation studies, including functional and structural evaluation, were conducted on the CIRP-constructed road in NH66 in Malappuram district, Kerala. Falling weight deflectometer (FWD) and KGPBACK software were used to evaluate the performance of a CIRP road section by studying the deflection in response to the load applied at selected points on the highway. Based on the analysis of data collected, a maintenance strategy is developed for a conventional flexible pavement using CIRP technology. The back-calculated result obtained from the study was used as the input parameter for designing the maintenance strategy for a selected stretch of State Highway 57 under the same traffic, terrain, and climatic conditions. A cost comparison study was also performed to understand the sustainability of CIRP over a conventional method. The research findings showed that pavements built using Cold In-Place Recycling Pavement (CIRP) demonstrated superior performance in terms of cost-effectiveness, strength, and environmental friendliness.

Road traffic emissions have rapidly increased due to urbanization and motorization. Accurate estimation of these emissions is imperative for effective policymaking. This paper presents a model prepared using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for spatially disaggregating road traffic emissions in megacity of Delhi for the year 2018. The study integrates the emission estimation based on the approach by COPERT methodology and the gridding of emissions at a high resolution based on the road density of the area. GIS techniques are employed to analyse and prepare the datasets for allocating emissions to geographical areas. The emissions are allocated based on gridded road density. The estimated total emission of heavy metals from vehicular sources is 695.202 Mg/year. Copper (71%) and lead (73%) were the significant contributors to the brake wear and tyre wear emissions, respectively. The geographical region with a dense road network reflects high congestion and is considered as a major emanating hot spot. The exhaust emission inventory is accompanied by uncertainties due to the considerable variation in the emission factors. The research findings highlight the importance of spatial distribution of emissions essential for developing mitigation plans to reduce emissions from motor vehicles.

The distribution of wheel loads on a two-way pavement has a noteworthy impact on pavement design. It is essential to consider this distribution when dealing with two-way pavements. This study examined the wheel load distribution under the contact region of two-way pavements separated by a median strip. The variation of this distribution is represented as a pressure bulb for different spacing ratios (S/B). Additionally, the significant depth under the two-way pavement is expressed as a significant depth factor (εz). The results suggest that the behavior of the wheel load distribution under a two-way pavement differs from that of under a one-way pavement. Higher stresses on the soil within the overlapped zone have a significant effect on the soil beneath the pavement.

Quality assurance and quality control are essential for any construction project, ensuring effective operation and proper use of invested funds. Recently, several small-scale stormwater drainage networks (SDNs) were installed along rural roads in the vicinity of Nagpur city to transport stormwater to the nearest disposal points. This improves the functionality of water-bound Macadam (WBM) rural roads by effectively draining stormwater. Therefore, these SDNs must meet their design goals, necessitating quality assurance.This study aims to conduct quality assurance on SDNs in three rural localities of Nagpur city. Performing quality assurance is challenging in areas where the SDN layout is inaccessible or complex. A quality assurance methodology was developed according to site conditions.

This paper delves into the crucial topic of quality assurance and control measures for water-bound macadam (WBM) roads in the rural area of North Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. The research, conducted through field investigation and laboratory testing, uncovers significant challenges such as surface erosion and inadequate drainage. Despite satisfactory performance in aggregate and binding materials, deficiencies in surface finish and drainage are observed. The paper provides key recommendations, including improving surface finish, enhancing site monitoring, and establishing maintenance mechanisms. The importance of addressing these issues cannot be overstated, as it is vital for ensuring road durability and safety. By implementing these recommendations, stakeholders can significantly enhance road infrastructure quality and make a substantial contribution to sustainable community development.

Slope stability is the potential of soil slopes to withstand and not undergo any movement. Natural processes can cause areas to become unstable, such as weathering, forest fires, and the timberline moving lower. There are ways in geotechnical engineering to stabilize these unstable slopes or to reinforce the new or existing unstable slopes. The most economic and quick solution is to reinforce the slope with slender steel bars, known as soil nail, and the technique is known as soil nailing. Soil nails are reinforcing, passive slender elements (normally steel reinforcing bars) that are drilled sub-horizontally in the ground to support excavations in soil, or in soft and weathered rock that contribute to the stability of earth-resisting systems. These measures are brought to accommodate additional land near any soil dumps which adds an extra traffic lane to the existing highway. The stability of these reinforced slopes needs to be assessed. In this study, stability of slope reinforced with soil nails is determined with the help of numerical computation softwares altering the reinforcement in the slope. Factor of safety for all such trials are recorded, and the best is found.

The in-pit and waste dump slopes in the opencast mine are exposed to various loads that can make them unstable. One crucial factor impacting stability is the presence of load-carrying trucks on the haul roads constructed along the slope’s benches. This study assesses the slope stability of a Wollastonite and Calcite mine site, considering the impact of haul road loadings. The truckload was assigned as an equivalent single-wheel load determined as per the site. The study aims to evaluate the effects of increased loading on haul roads and to observe the subsequent reduction in the factor of safety (FoS). A numerical approach was utilized to carry out the analysis of the sections. Key findings reveal that the loading of haul roads significantly influences slope stability, and with certain slope design configurations, the enhancement of resilience against potential failures can be achieved. The site-specific remedial measures and recommendations were discussed based on the results obtained.

This study takes a unique approach to investigate the uplift capacity of self-supported single-pole foundations. It employs finite element limit analysis with OptumG2 software, focusing on the influence of eccentric loading. The analysis explores various parameters, including eccentricities, angle of internal friction, dilatancy angles, embedment ratio, and failure pattern due to eccentricity. The results reveal that pullout load increases with higher embedment ratios but decreases with an increase in eccentricity. Moreover, higher dilatancy angles lead to an increase in the pullout load. The study also presents the failure patterns, showing that for pure vertical pullout (e/B = 0), failure envelopes are symmetrical, whereas, for the eccentric pullout, failure envelopes are asymmetrical with larger plastic zones toward the direction of the eccentric load. These results provide information on the stability and design of lamp post foundation under various loading scenarios, enlightening the audience with new perspectives and knowledge in this field.