Rapid Assessment of Cement and Fiber-Stabilized Soil Using Roller-Integrated Compaction Monitoring

Abstract

Test sections of high-early strength (Type III) portland cement and polypropylene monofilament fibers were constructed at the Bradshaw Field Training Area in the Northern Territory (NT), Australia as part of a Joint Rapid Airfield Construction (JRAC) project. Aprons, taxi-ways, and a helipad were stabilized using these materials in combination with screened native soil. The purpose of the test sections was to (a) evaluate the resulting properties for different stabilization dosage rates; (b) develop construction methods, criteria (including limits), and quality control guidelines; and (c) provide a hands-on training opportunity for the joint United States and Australia military construction team. Testing and monitoring consisted of roller-integrated compaction monitoring (global position systems monitoring pass coverages and compaction machine values) and in situ testing, which included dynamic cone penetration tests, Clegg impact tests, and light-weight deflectometer tests. After the test sections, construction of the helipad helped refine the construction methods and quality control testing for the selected stabilization dosage rates and machine speed. Lessons learned on the helipad were applied to the subsequent aircraft parking aprons and taxiways. Recommendations were developed for rapid stabilization construction procedures and quality control testing using Clegg impact values and light-weight deflectometer for cement-fiber stabilized soils, and the application of roller-integrated compaction technology was demonstrated to document compaction effort and uniformity.