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INSTRUCTORS:
Farzen Kazemi, PhD, PE
Abu Ahmed Sufian, Ph.D., EIT
Purpose and Background
These presentations were recorded at the International Airfield & Highway Pavements Conference 2025.
Alternative Friction Measurement for Concrete Pavements: CA PST vs. CFME Correlation Study (19 minutes)
This presentation focuses on evaluating continuous friction measurement equipment (CFME) as alternatives to the traditional California Portable Skid Tester (CA PST) for concrete pavement surfaces. The study was conducted over four phases, involving laboratory and field testing of multiple devices including the Micro Grip Tester (MGT) and T2GO. A key goal was to establish correlations between CA PST and newer CFME devices and determine whether these could be reliably used in Caltrans specifications. The research included regression analysis, usability evaluations, and the development of proposed friction acceptance criteria for concrete pavements and bridge decks. Overall, the study found strong correlation coefficients and suggested practical CFME thresholds that align with the existing CA PST benchmarks.
Applications of Quiet Pavements in Reducing Highway Noise (20 minutes)
This session explores how quiet pavement technologies can serve as cost-effective alternatives to traditional noise barriers for highway noise mitigation. The presentation discusses findings from a Florida DOT-sponsored study, which included literature reviews, analysis of noise and texture data, and focus group interviews with five state DOTs. Emphasis is placed on the types of pavement surfaces (e.g., open-graded, dense-graded, asphalt rubber) and their impacts on noise, friction, and durability. International practices, noise modeling techniques like OBSI and WSI, and public perception were also examined. The study concludes with identified research gaps and a roadmap for implementing quiet pavements in noise mitigation strategies.
TSD Deflection Bowl Simulation and Correlation between TSD data & AASHTOWare Pavement ME Design (17 minutes)
This technical presentation addresses the use of Traffic Speed Deflectometer (TSD) data to simulate pavement deflection basins and correlate these with distress predictions from AASHTOWare Pavement ME Design software. Two modeling tools—3DMove and DeSTiL—were used to simulate deflection bowls across different pavement thicknesses. The study then conducted a parametric analysis of 243 pavement sections and compared synthetic TSD-based deflection parameters with predicted distresses such as IRI, rutting, and fatigue cracking. Field validations showed promising alignment between modeled and actual measurements, particularly for thin and intermediate pavement sections.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain the comparative performance and usability of CFME devices (MGT and T2GO) against CA PST for measuring pavement friction.
- Describe the regression-based method used to establish friction acceptance criteria using CFME as a substitute for CA PST.
- Discuss the effectiveness, limitations, and implementation challenges of quiet pavement strategies as alternatives to highway noise barriers.
- Identify key surface characteristics and materials that influence tire-pavement noise generation and their practical implications for DOTs.
- Describe the methodology for simulating TSD deflection bowls using 3DMove and DeSTiL tools and validating them against field data.
Assessment of Learning Outcomes
Students' achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed via a short post-test assessment (true-false, multiple choice, and/or fill in the blank questions).
Who Should Attend?
- Transportation Engineers
- Transportation Professionals
- Materials engineers
- Consultants & Contractors
- Academics & Researchers
- Young Professionals & Students
How to Earn Your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion
To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short post-test and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 1 year of purchasing the course.
How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?
1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]