Minnesota Department of Transportation

This document provides an update on the Utah Department of Transportation's initiative to integrate Roadway Density Meters (RDM) for enhanced pavement quality assessment. The key focus areas include refining RDM application through lessons learned from a 2025 joint compaction project, planning for a 2026 mat compaction project with RDM-based incentives, and strategizing future procurement of additional DPS machines. The intended outcome is to standardize technology use, improve pavement quality control, and optimize incentive programs.

This workplan outlines Phase II of the Continuous Asphalt Mixture Compaction Assessment Using Density Profiling System (DPS) project, led by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Its primary aim is to enhance asphalt pavement compaction assessment using non-destructive DPS technology to improve pavement quality, reduce destructive testing, enhance safety, and extend pavement longevity. The plan addresses key priorities including data analysis and ghost implementation support, personnel training, benefit-cost analysis, and regional data support through tasks such as universal analysis software development, supporting ghost implementations, foundational research, personnel training and materials development, economic evaluations, and communication and stakeholder engagement.

The meeting focused on Density Profiling System (DPS) evaluation and implementation. Discussions included Virginia DOT's initial evaluation of the DPS mix design module, comparing DPS testing phases (field and lab components) against physical core densities and lab pill densities, and developing unique regression equations for different mixtures. Precision, bias, and accuracy were addressed through proposed laboratory and field certification programs to compare sensors and evaluate variability. The University of New Hampshire presented progress on developing a data processing tool for field-measured dielectric data, focusing on data validation and developing acceptance criteria. Topics slated for future reporting included data analysis uses, precision/bias/accuracy studies, agency use for acceptance/certification, and limitations/research needs.

The meeting focused on the DPS pooled fund project, emphasizing the importance of feedback and involvement from participants to develop implementable specifications. Discussions included sharing experiences and data collection analysis, with a review of data collected since the last meeting in October. The meeting aimed to address software and hardware improvements, including a contract with JSSI, and to provide updates on the project's progress, highlighting tasks completed and planned releases of new software. Federal Highway's support for DPS activities, including an upcoming implementation planning workshop, was discussed, along with opportunities for equipment loaning and demonstrations. The new 2.0 puck testing kits were introduced, with emphasis on their convenience and the importance of precise height measurements for accurate results.

The meeting discussed improving construction quality through technology, including the use of thermal imaging, intelligent compaction, and software like Veda for managing big data. The discussion included the need for standardization of data, addressing issues with the quality of people in the field, and making the technology easier to use. There was also discussion of the practical implementation of quality control tests and the importance of accurate data for contractor payment.