ADIEM: development of a low cost high performance terminal for concrete median barriers and portable concrete barriers

Presented here are the results of a research and compliance testing program to develop a low-cost, high-performance terminal for portable concrete barriers (PCBs) and permanent concrete median (CMB) and roadside barriers. The result is the Advanced Dynamic Impact Extension Module (ADIEM). The energy absorption elements of this terminal are lightly reinforced, ultra low strength Perlite concrete modules. The redirection element of this terminal is a heavily reinforced conventional concrete variable height curb with automobile hub-height pipe rail. ADIEM meets the requirements of NCHRP 230 at a cost of approximately $100 per foot. This translates into a projected cost for a 60 mph class, 30 foot barrier of $3000.00. This appears to represent a major cost reduction for PCB and CMB terminals.