System for Rating Materials-Related Distress of Concrete Airfield Pavements

A new guide has been developed for the field evaluation of concrete pavements affected by materials-related distress (MRD). The guide assists technical personnel in identifying whether a pavement is affected by MRD and, if so, to what degree. On the basis of the observed manifestation of MRD, an MRD rating is calculated and used in the early detection and ongoing monitoring of potential MRD problems. The rating helps personnel identify the need for maintenance, repair, or more-significant rehabilitation of pavement. Although the MRD rating procedure was developed for use on airfield pavements to minimize the risk of aircraft damage caused by foreign objects and debris, it is equally applicable to use on concrete highway pavements. A detailed approach for visual assessment of pavement and calculation of the MRD rating is discussed. Examples are provided for proper identification and recording of observed MRD indicators and computation of the MRD rating.