Journal Published Online: 30 April 2018
Volume 7, Issue 3

Evaluating the Potential for Replacing the Nuclear Density Gauge using Nonnuclear Alternative Devices and Methods

CODEN: ACEMF9

Abstract

This study was initiated with the aim of replacing the nuclear density gauge (NDG) with nonnuclear alternative methods that can be used as acceptance tools during the compaction of soils and dense graded aggregates (i.e., unbound pavement layers). To fulfill this objective, a laboratory procedure for compacting large samples was developed. This procedure facilitated testing using three nonnuclear devices: Briaud compaction device (BCD), light weight falling deflectometer (LWD), and dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP). Four types of aggregates, two subgrade soils, one dense graded aggregate, and one recycled concrete aggregates, were selected to comprehensively cover a wide range of subgrade and base/subbase materials typically used in the State of New Jersey (NJ). Each device was evaluated for accuracy and repeatability. The sensitivity of the results measured from each device to moisture content, compaction effort applied, and testing time was also evaluated. Based on testing results, it was found that the DCP was most sensitive to detecting changes in the measured parameters. The results also indicated that the DCP was the most suitable device for replacing the NDG.

Author Information

Abyad, Janine
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ, USA
Ali, Ayman W.
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ, USA
Mehta, Yusuf A.
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ, USA
Celaya, Manuel
Advanced Infrastructure Design, Hamilton Township, NJ, USA
Chen, Fangliang
Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
Venkiteela, Giri
New Jersey Department of Transportation, Trenton, NJ, USA
Offenbacker, Daniel
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ, USA
Pages: 17
Price: $25.00
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Stock #: ACEM20170074
ISSN: 2379-1357
DOI: 10.1520/ACEM20170074