NTL Record

Title Durability of Segmental Retaining Wall Blocks: Final Report
Record ID 65915
Personal Name
Creator
Chan, Cesar.; Hover, K. C.; Folliard, Kevin J.; Hance, Randall M.; Trejo, David
Personal Name
Contributor
Adams, Michael
Corporate Creator University of Texas at Austin. Concrete Durability Center
Corporate
Contributor
United States. Department of Transportation. Federal Highway Administration. Office of Infrastructure Research and Development; United States. Department of Transportation. Federal Highway Administration. Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center
Publisher United States. Department of Transportation. Federal Highway Administration. Office of Infrastructure Research and Development
Publication Date 20070401
Language English
Abstract Segmental retaining wall (SRW) systems are commonly and successfully used in a range of applications, including highway projects. Their popularity can be attributed to a combination of reduced construction costs, versatility, aesthetic appearance, ease of installation, and an increasing number of proprietary designs available in the market. Despite these inherent advantages, there have been some reported problems with durability of SRW blocks in cold climates. The deterioration of some SRW installations in State highway agency (SHA) applications has resulted in concern over the long-term performance of SRW systems and has led to stricter specifications and, in some cases, restrictions on future use of SRW systems. In response to these concerns, a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)-funded research project was initiated to determine the cause and extent of SRW block distress, to identify and recommend test methods for improving durability of SRW systems, and to recommend specifications for SHAs to ensure long-term durability and performance of SRW systems in highway applications. This report summarizes the key findings of this project and provides guidance on producing durable SRW blocks to ensure long-term performance of SRW systems in highway applications.
Public Note Distribution number: HRDI-06/04-07(500)E
Rosap ID dot:38727
Rosap URL https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/38727
TRT Terms Segmental construction; Retaining walls; Durability; Freeze thaw durability
Geographical
Coverage
United States
TRIS Online
Accession No
1055097
Contract Number DTFH61-01-02-R-00078
Report Number FHWA HRT-07-021
Resource type Tech Report
URL https://ntlrepository.blob.core.windows.net/lib/65000/65900/65915/FHWA_HRT-07-021.pdf
Alternative URL https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/research/infrastructure/structures/07021/index.cfm
Format PDF
Database NTL Digital Repository