<rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="https://www.w3.org/2005/Atom">
  <channel>
    <title>Research in Progress (RIP)</title>
    <link>https://rip.trb.org/</link>
    <atom:link href="https://rip.trb.org/Record/RSS?s=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" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
    <description></description>
    <language>en-us</language>
    <copyright>Copyright © 2026. National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.</copyright>
    <docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs>
    <managingEditor>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</managingEditor>
    <webMaster>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</webMaster>
    <image>
      <title>Research in Progress (RIP)</title>
      <url>https://rip.trb.org/Images/PageHeader-wTitle-RIP.jpg</url>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/</link>
    </image>
    <item>
      <title>Thermoplastic Rebar Durability Study</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2556688</link>
      <description><![CDATA[There is a need for non-corroding reinforcement of concrete. A significant shortcoming of commercially available thermoset pultruded rebar is that it cannot be field bent after initial fabrication, and common configurations such as hooked bars, stirrups and spirals must be created during the primary manufacturing process. This limits adaptability during construction and increases cost. A new thermoplastic composite pultrusion process has been implemented at the University of Maine (UMaine) Advanced Structures and Composites Center using a Continuous Forming Machine (CFM). The CFM has been fitted with dies to manufacture thermoplastic composite rebar with continuous fiber reinforcement for internal reinforcing of concrete. This thermoplastic composite rebar is also amenable to the creation of surface deformations using stamp forming and can be bent after manufacture. Surface modifications to the thermoplastic rebar can develop shear transfer capability through interfacial adhesion and interlocking with concrete comparable to steel rebar. A requirement for the adoption of the thermoplastic composite rebar is to have a database of material properties including strength and elastic modulus retention factors based on accelerated durability tests for simulated environmental conditions.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 09:09:51 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2556688</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Advancing Forensic Investigation of Concrete Distresses at VTRC with Focus on Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR)</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2567104</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The Virginia Transportation Research Council (VTRC) plays a pivotal role in supporting Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) by providing technical assistance to districts in addressing field-related issues. Traditionally, forensic investigations conducted by VTRC have relied on petrography, primarily utilizing light microscopy techniques such as stereo and polarizing light microscopy. While effective, this approach has inherent limitations, including labor-intensive sample preparation, reliance on visual assessments, and subjectivity in interpretation. Moreover, the current dependency on external consultants for forensic evaluations results in significant costs and delays, impacting timely decision-making. To address these challenges, VTRC is modernizing its forensic investigation capabilities by integrating advanced analytical instruments, including Raman spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).These techniques not only reduce subjectivity but also improve the accuracy, efficiency, and reliability of forensic assessments.
The adoption of these technologies will significantly enhance VTRC’s ability to investigate key durability concerns such as alkali-silica reaction (ASR), delayed ettringite formation (DEF), and sulfate attack. Furthermore, future expansions of this research will explore applications in chloride diffusion, freeze-thaw resistance, air content analysis, and thermal distress assessments. Additionally, the development of a comprehensive database and algorithm for data interpretation will further refine forensic evaluations, ensuring consistency 
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Sun, 22 Jun 2025 09:50:47 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2567104</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Correlating In-situ Rapid Concrete Durability Test With Standardized Methods Via Pore Structure Analysis</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2549027</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This project seeks to evaluate the concrete durability through the development and optimization of a novel, non-destructive, rapid in-situ testing method known as the Water Pressure Drop Test (WPDT). Traditional methods for assessing concrete durability, such as the rapid chloride penetration test (RCPT), bulk resistivity, and rapid freeze-thaw tests, require extensive sample preparation, precise laboratory conditions, and significant time investments, often making them impractical for field use. In contrast, the WPDT enables the assessment of concrete durability on site in as little as 20 minutes, eliminating the need for sample damage or prolonged saturation processes.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Sun, 04 May 2025 15:27:45 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2549027</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>TRC2403: Evaluation of Air in Concrete</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2422920</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Air content is a crucial component of hardened concrete that is directly linked to the durability and lifespan of structures. A widely known phenomenon of air loss occurs when pumping air-entrained concrete through a pump truck. To get a sample with the most accurate air content, the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) specifications require samples to be taken at the pump truck hose discharge. This process is often difficult and relatively dangerous. Air loss can cause the ’concrete’s air content to fall below the specified limits of the specification and, therefore, cause issues for ARDOT engineers, contractors, and concrete producers. The objectives of this project are to determine the correct location for sampling air-entrained concrete. Evaluate the theory that entrained air returns to the concrete after pumping and before the initial set. Evaluate the ability of the Super Air Meter (SAM) to predict entrained air bubble size and spacing through petrographic analysis. Evaluate the durability of current concrete mix designs. Determine optimized concrete curing methods through comparison to current methods by using test decks. Test hardened concrete's resistivity and chloride penetration to establish a baseline of current concrete mix designs. Evaluate fly ash variability with air entrainment efforts through the use of the foam index test. This research will also evaluate the durability of current concrete mix designs and the variability of fly ash’s impact on air entrainment.  The research will be conducted as a series of test decks cast alongside Department bridge construction projects. These test decks will be cast and cured identically to the bridge deck being poured.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 Aug 2024 12:22:08 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2422920</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Bio-Inspired Solutions for Jersey and Road Noise Barriers: Exploring 3D Printing as Alternative Precast Technology</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2250458</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This research project aims to leverage the potential of concrete 3D printing as an alternative precast technology to develop innovative Jersey barriers for impact energy absorption and self-reconfigurable acoustic metamaterials for road noise mitigation. By combining concrete and polymers and exploring the novel approach of printing two materials simultaneously, the project seeks to optimize energy dissipation in Jersey barriers and develop customized acoustic barriers with improved noise reduction capabilities. The research will involve design, comprehensive analysis, fabrication techniques, and rigorous testing to validate the performance and durability of the 3D-printed barriers. The findings from this project have the potential to significantly enhance road safety and noise reduction in transportation infrastructure. By providing novel solutions backed by thorough validation, the project aims to offer sustainable and effective measures for mitigating impact forces and reducing road traffic noise.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 18 Sep 2023 22:12:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2250458</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SPR-4823:  Systematic Study of Type 1L Cement for Mixture Optimization and Carbon Reduction</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2209598</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Portland limestone (i.e., Type 1L) cement is being used to replace ordinary Portland cement to reduce carbon emissions. The reduction of around 10% of cement clinker and its replacement with limestone powder can greatly reduce the energy consumption by cement production.  This project will conduct a comprehensive study on the performance of Type 1L cement provided by various suppliers. It will thoroughly investigate all performance related properties, including but not limited to, fresh properties, air void system, mechanical strength, and durability of the hardened concrete, etc.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 10 Jul 2023 09:16:50 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2209598</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Assessment and validation of concrete durability testing procedures in support of AASHTO PP-84</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2085728</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This research will investigate the sensitivity of the bucket test to mixture design variations (e.g., w/cm, air content, paste/aggregate ratio, and components (SCMs)) that might impact curing rates.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 16 Dec 2022 14:15:25 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2085728</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Advance and Validate Performance Engineered Mixtures (PEM) tests and procedures</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2085725</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This research will develop thresholds for concrete durability tests to indicate pavement quality.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 16 Dec 2022 14:15:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2085725</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Implementation of UHPC Technology into the New England 
Construction Industry (2.14)</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1875138</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The proposed research aims at the development and implementation of cost effective non-proprietary high and ultrahigh performance concrete (UHPC) mix designs. Research emphasis is being placed on testing and analysis of durability properties of promising UHPC mixtures, as well as testing large scale mixing in collaboration with industry partners in the field. Knowledge transfer, educating personnel and quality control will be vital parts in this project to make this challenging task a success. Upon success, this project will provide a great opportunity to enhance the sustainability and longevity of our bridge infrastructure.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Sat, 28 Aug 2021 18:28:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1875138</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Assessment and Evaluation of Post-Liquefaction Lateral Spread Impact on Bridge Deep Foundations</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1855320</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Durability and serviceability of bridges and their deep foundations could be highly influenced by the downdrag forces acting on the pile foundation due to the inundation of existing collapsible soil layers and resulting large soil settlement around the piles. The analysis of the bridge deep foundations under downdrag forces triggered by the inundation of collapsible of collapsible soils carries a lot of ambiguity and uncertainty. Current practice focuses on the assessment of downdrag force caused by the consolidation settlement of clay layers based on the distribution of fully mobilized downdrag force and resistance along the pile.

The proposed research work determines the excessive settlement of collapsible soil caused by the inundation of the soil based on a number of basic properties of the collapsible soils such as the soil’s initial void ratio, degree of saturation, uniformity coefficient, dry unit weight and collapse potential. Such an excessive soil settlement is employed in the proposed pile-soil model to assess the downdrag force acting on the pile skin and the associating pile axial response considering the pile-soil relative settlement and mobilized pile-soil resistance. The proposed model combines the pile-head axial load from the superstructure along with the developing downdrag force and mobilized pile-soil resistance above and below the neutral plane, respectively, based in the pile-soil interaction.

The developed pile-soil model is compiled into a computer code with a user-friendly graphical interface for input and output data. The proposed model will be validated through case studies available in the literature.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 28 May 2021 19:05:29 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1855320</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Structural Design Methodology for Spray Applied Pipe Liners in Gravity Storm Water Conveyance Conduits</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1456883</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This project will do the following: (1) Recommend a design methodology for both cementitious and resin based spray applied pipe liners for structural rehabilitation of gravity storm water conveyance conduits. (2) Recommend a laboratory test method to verify the proposed structural design for conduits that have been rehabilitated using the spray applied pipe liner technology.  (3) Recommend an accelerated laboratory methodology to determine the liner material durability. (4) Recommend laboratory material testing for both cementitious and resin based materials.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 22 Feb 2017 18:11:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1456883</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Field Test of Biodiesel</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1367428</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This project will evaluate engine durability of locomotives using biodiesel fuels. ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2015 12:10:44 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1367428</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Plastic Ties Safety Performance Evaluation</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1366937</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Plastic composite ties use has increased significantly in recent years.  A variety of material compositions and designs are available. This project is to continue support of the existing Government/Academia/Industry Partnership, and specifically to: 1) support triennail National Workshops under the auspices of the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA) Subcommittee on Engineered Composite Ties, for information sharing and research prioritization, 2) address safety concerns raised due to unknown failure modes and durability in service through testing at the Transportation Technology Center (TTC) and publication of reports through the National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 3) document performance based on the testing and use by Class 1 railroads, and 4) update of the AREMA Engineering Manuals section on plastic ties based on these results.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 27 Aug 2015 09:09:34 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1366937</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Superhydrophobic Engineered Cementitious Composites for Highway Bridge Applications: Technology Transfer and Implementation</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1234704</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The strength and durability of highway bridges are two key components in maintaining a high level of freight transportation capacity on the nation's highways. Superhydrophobic Engineered Cementitious Composites (SECC) is a new advanced concrete material with polyvinyl alcohol fibers and hydrophobic compounds, which is under development by the current National Center for Freight and Infrastructure Research and Education (CFIRE) project 05-10.The SECC is an effective substitute to conventional concrete that can provide the strength and durability demanded in key regions of highway bridges. The proposed project will deal with technology transfer and implementation of the developed SECC.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 15:18:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1234704</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Quieter, Smoother, More Durable Pavement Surfaces</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1234496</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Results will extend pavement service and maximize system performance including key properties of smoothness, noise, and durability. Better mix designs for noise and durability of (i) current Caltrans mixes and (ii) potentially new mixes. Meets commitment to Caltrans Quiet Pavement Pilot Project long-term study (>5 years) required by the FHWA. Comparisons will be made with other research (e.g., Danish Road Institute, National Center for Asphalt Technology), other mixes, and improved California mix designs. Field studies include continuing to monitor noise, pavement smoothness, condition, and other properties. New sections established under the Pavement Preservation Task Group (PPTG) will be monitored for 5 year minimum per Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) requirement. Laboratory study of mix designs for better noise reduction and durability over time. Continuing to build data base and document field measurements and laboratory tests.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 15:13:25 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1234496</guid>
    </item>
  </channel>
</rss>