Request for Proposal
Project 05-07
Techniques for Prevention and Remediation of Non-Load Related Distresses on HMA Airport Pavements (Phase I)

Proposals Due December 7, 2006

Airfield Asphalt Pavement
Technology Program (AAPTP)

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Asphalt pavements represent a considerable investment in the infrastructure of airfields. It is estimated that 80-85% of the airfield pavements are surfaced with asphalt. The majority of these pavements are the smaller, lighter trafficked airfields that have limited funding for repairs and pavement maintenance activities. These airfields are subjected to a wide range of climatic conditions that often result in thermal cracking, large block cracking and surface deterioration that are not load related. Several products and procedures are being promoted as corrective or deterrent measures to these types of distresses. A comprehensive study is needed to provide guidance to airfield engineers and managers to address cost effective prevention and mitigation of these types of pavement distresses.

Objectives

The objective of this study is to provide comprehensive technical guidance on the causes and measures required to correct and/or prevent non-load related distress on asphalt airfield pavements. This study is divided into two phases. Phase I (this request for proposals) will consist of a literature review of the extent of the problem, development of a comprehensive list of products and procedures presently used to address the problems, and a detailed work plan to be conducted in Phase II. Phase II of the project shall consist of conducting a work plan that was developed and approved in Phase I. Phase II work plan is to address the shortfalls and gap in knowledge on the prioritized non load related distresses and conditions and/or validate a systematic approach to select appropriate corrective measures and products for repair of pavement exhibiting non-load related distress. Phase II may be awarded without further competition pending performance and satisfactory completion of Phase I of this project.

Note: The investigator is encouraged not to accomplish the gathering of information by conducting a massive written survey of all airports. A survey is defined as the random distribution of a standard list of questions that seek trends for forecasting information. The use of such surveys must receive approval through the AAPTP from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). That process requires a minimum of 90 days from the date of application for the survey approval.

The literature review and final products from Phase I shall consider but shall not be limited to the following:

  1. Elements that contribute to non-load related distress and limiting values to prevent distress formations
  2. Identify and qualify the extent of non-load related distresses on HMA airfield pavements. Non-load related distress in this project shall be distresses as defined by ASTM D5340 and are generally those distresses associated with changes in the asphalt pavement temperature, moisture and other climatic exposure. Distresses associated with tire friction, aircraft wheel loads and/or fuel spills are not to be addressed in this project.
  3. Identify and assess products and procedures currently being promoted to correct and/or prevent non-load related distresses in airfield pavements.
  4. Identification of specific site conditions or usage that promotes and/or restricts the development of non-load related distress on airfield pavements.
  5. Identify existing laboratory test methods and procedures that address the issues associated with non-load related distress or products the repair/prevent distresses in HMA mixtures
  6. Identify gaps and shortfall of knowledge on the cause and corrective measures for non-load related distress.

Specific conditions for airfield pavements should consider the following:

  1. Location of non-load related distress on different types of airport pavement such as taxiways, runways, aprons and access roads and appropriate repair/prevention products and techniques.
  2. Geographical and climate variations in airfields exhibiting non-load related distress.
  3. Ability and limitations of maintenance and corrective actions
  4. Type of aircraft and traffic frequency
  5. Predominant application of the results of this project will be for general aviation and non- primary airports.

Product

The products for Phase I of this project shall consistent of: (1) comprehensive literature review on non-load related distress of asphalt airfield pavements; (2) review and listing of products and procedures for repair and/or prevention of non-load related distress; and (3) a detailed work plan to investigate and address the most critical issues associated with non-load related distress. These products shall be developed by addressing the following tasks:

Task 1 -- Review and summarize existing literature on non-load related distress and corrective measures on asphalt airfield pavements.

Task 2 -- Develop a matrix of factors contributing to non-load related distress and assess the geographical distribution of potential airfields exhibiting specific non-load related distress.

Task 3 -- Provide a preliminary report outlining findings to date and future course of actions that are being considered. The report is expected to be presented to the technical panel at a mutually agreed upon location 3-4 months after award. The purpose of this meeting is for the technical panel to provide comments and direction for the completion of Phase I and understand direction of possible proposals for Phase II.

Task 4 -- Identify potential laboratory tests that may be used to assess key properties of the HMA and specific site conditions that may be used to predict non-load related distress in airfield pavements.

Task 5 -- Develop and submit draft report containing work completed and the detailed work plan for Phase II of the project. Comments will be provided by the technical panel within 30 days of receiving the preliminary report documents.

Task 6 -- Develop Phase I final report. This report shall include revised literature and product review and a comprehensive research plan for Phase II. The research plan shall be similar in format and content as the request for proposal. The plan shall include a technical approach, cost and manpower proposal to complete Phase II within 24 months and within the $330,000 funding limitation. This plan and the performance of the contractor in Phase I shall be used by the technical panel for recommendation for award without further competition of Phase II of the project.

All written documentation will be prepared using Microsoft Word unless otherwise stated. All reports will be the property of the AAPTP and Auburn University and will be supplied in a format that complies with the FAA's Section 508 requirements for electronic documents.

Reporting Requirements

Progress Reports

Quarterly progress reports (2 hard copies and an electronic copy in Microsoft Word format) are required from the research agency and are to be prepared on the basis of calendar quarters. The research agency will mail the report directly to the AAPTP and will e-mail each of the members of the technical review panel a copy of the progress report. Each report will include a cover letter and the following:

  1. a clear and complete description of the work performed on each task during that quarter;
  2. an outline of the work to be accomplished during the next quarter;
  3. a description of any problem(s) encountered or anticipated that might affect the completion of the project within the time and fiscal constraints recommended;
  4. provide potential solutions to problems identified in (c) if any exist.

Report Format

The formats for the Interim and Final reports are provided under "Research Process."

Contractual Information

Funds Available: $150,000

Contract Time:12 months (includes 1 month for AAPTP to review and for the contractor to revise the final report.)

Staff Responsibility: Monte Symons, 334-844-4964, symonmg@auburn.edu

Proposals Due: December 7, 2006

Submit Proposals To: AAPTP, 277 Technology Parkway, Auburn, AL, 36830

Authorization to Begin Work: January 15, 2007 -- estimated

Maintained by Linda Kerr