Measuring Corrosion Conditions in Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) Walls

KDOT extensively utilizes mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls, typically with coarse aggregate backfill. K-TRAN: KSU-15-6 and K-TRAN: KU-15-5 tested the aggregate material from MSE walls under construction in. KU identified that several of the clean aggregate samples contained some fines, likely from crushing of the aggregate, and two of the walls contained over 10% fines. Aggregate backfill is specified because it allows for free drainage, limiting the pore water pressure buildup behind the wall. There is the potential for these fines to migrate towards the base of the wall over time. This migration of fines would not only increase the potential for water retention, but it would also increase the localized corrosion potential of the backfill. This joint project will measure the in situ backfill conditions of MSE walls. The main deliverable of this research will be a validated methodology for determining the in situ backfill condition of MSE walls after construction.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • Lab work delayed due to COVID-19.

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Active
• Funding: $52,723
• Contract Numbers:

  K-TRAN: KSU-19-5

  RE-0751-01

  C2128

• Sponsor Organizations:

  Kansas Department of Transportation

  Eisenhower State Office Building
  700 SW Harrison Street
  Topeka, KS  United States  66603-3754
• Project Managers:

  Metheny, Luke

• Performing Organizations:

  Kansas State University Transportation Center

  Kansas State University
  Department of Civil Engineering
  Manhattan, KS  United States  66506
• Principal Investigators:

  Tucker-Kulesza, Stacey

• Start Date: 20180801
• Expected Completion Date: 20200331
• Actual Completion Date: 0

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Corrosion; Electrical resistivity; Fines (Materials); Mechanically stabilized earth
• Subject Areas: Geotechnology; Maintenance and Preservation; Materials;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01704510
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: Kansas Department of Transportation
• Contract Numbers: K-TRAN: KSU-19-5, RE-0751-01, C2128
• Files: RiP, STATEDOT
• Created Date: May 8 2019 10:18AM