RESEARCH PROGRAMS

Testing & Evaluation of Recovered Traction Sanding Material

Project Performed by:Dr. Robert Mokwa, P.E.

and Andrew Foster

Western Transportation Institute College of Engineering

Montana State University – Bozeman

Presented by:Kris ChristensenResearch Programs

Montana Department of Transportation

For More Information see Research Programs Web Page at:

http://www.mdt.mt.gov/research/projects/env/recycling.shtml

RESEARCH PROGRAMS

Problem Statement

• Large amounts of sanding material are applied to roadways in Montana every winter

• In the spring, the deployed traction sand is collected

• Creates storage and disposal problems

RESEARCH PROGRAMS

Research Performed

• Physical and chemical tests conducted on samples collected along the Bozeman Pass and Lookout Pass• MDT Materials laboratory did the mechanical

and physical testing• Chemical/contaminant testing was contracted

to an outside testing facility

• A cost-benefit analysis of reuse and recycle options for salvaged sand

RESEARCH PROGRAMS

Research ResultsRe-Use Options

MDT Specification DescriptionTraction Sand Provides traction on state highways and roads during winter months

Crushed Base Course (CBC)

Sub-layer material of an asphalt roadway

Crushed Top Surface (CTS) Crushed aggregate used on top layer of a roadway

Concrete Fine Aggregate Fine aggregate used in concrete mixture

Bedcourse Material Aggregate used for pipe placement

Cover Material Median cover aggregate

Cement Treated Base Aggregate used in mixture of Portland cement and water (pavement

base)

Plant Mix Surfacing Aggregate used for finishing road surfaces

RESEARCH PROGRAMS

Research Recommendations

Cost-Benefit Analysis Summary

60.4%

RESEARCH PROGRAMS

Implementation StrategyRe-use options will involve some minor changes to MDT’s current maintenance operations• Sand should be collected and removed as quickly

as practical

• Sand collected selectively stockpiled

• Select sites that have sufficient size and convenience for processing

• Samples should be routinely collected to evaluate changes to grain size

• Periodic testing for contaminants

RESEARCH PROGRAMS

Implementation Status• Lookout Pass area is selectively stockpiling at all

stock pile locations• Not sure of the total amount at all sites

  Wiley Taft

• Bozeman Pass has ~ 8,000 cubic yards of material collected but has not been selectively stock piled • This fall may pick up an extra 2,000 yards

RESEARCH PROGRAMS

Value of Implementing the Research

60.4%