Precast concrete slabs as full-depth repairs - Michigan experience

Continued efforts are being made to expedite the construction of durable concrete repairs. In the recent past considerable attention has been given to the use of precast concrete as an alternative to conventional full-depth repair. The use of precast portland cement concrete panels eliminates the time required for curing and offers numerous other benefits, such as an excellent quality of concrete (strength and durability), minimal variability in slab thickness, and minimal negative impacts from built-in curl. In October 2001 and summer 2002, Michigan State University, in cooperation with the Michigan Department. of Transportation, installed 21 precast full-depth patches along I-94 BL in Benton Harbor, Michigan, and I-196 in South Haven, Michigan. The construction and performance monitoring protocols for the precast panels placed along I-94 BL are documented. The results from this pilot study will facilitate effective technology transfer to other state agencies contemplating the use of this technology.