Quality Control of Hot Mix Asphalt Pavement Compaction Using In-Place Density Measurements from a Low-Activity Nuclear Gauge
Publication: Airfield and Highway Pavements 2021
ABSTRACT
Nuclear gauges are used for measuring in-place density during the asphalt compaction process. Gauge measurements are used to establish roller patterns, detect changes in the mix and process adjustments, and control density. These gauges use radioactive sources and thus require licensing for ownership and use, gauge operator training, personal dosimetry, and special gauge storage. These regulatory requirements have become a burden to some users. Recently, a low-activity nuclear gauge specifically designed for asphalt and soil density measurements was exempted from these nuclear regulatory requirements in the United States. This gauge has a low-activity gamma-ray source and uses advanced detector technologies and algorithms. To measure asphalt density, this new gauge uses the backscatter mode, which is a non-destructive method. This paper presents the design features and measurement principles incorporated in this new gauge for asphalt density measurements. Also included are the results of laboratory testing to determine the precision, sensitivity, accuracy, depth of measurement, and temperature dependence, and field testing as compared with a conventional nuclear density gauge.
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Airfield and Highway Pavements 2021
Pages: 92 - 102
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© 2021 American Society of Civil Engineers.
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Published online: Jun 4, 2021
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