CALTRANS EXTENDS PCC PAVEMENT LIFE THROUGH USE OF DIAMOND GRINDING

In 1996, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) initiated a 5-year Capital Maintenance Program aimed at restoring California's pavements. Of 31 projects initiated, 10 were diamond grinding only projects. Diamond grinding involves milling off a portion of the surface layer of portland cement concrete (PCC) pavements to provide a smoother riding surface and to correct slab curl. The process can extend significantly the service life of PCC pavements. This article describes the diamond grinding process and highlights the work of one California-based contractor performing the work. A sidebar is included on Caltrans attempt to change pavement design standards to lengthen the service life of PCC pavements.