Abstract
The purpose of the proposed research is to investigate the potential of using tank bottom sludge in combination with different aggregate to form an acceptable road base material. There are four specific goals. (1) Evaluate the properties of various aggregate/tank bottom sludge mixtures for suitability as road base material. (2) Compare the properties of the aggregate/tank bottom sludge mixtures to certain grades of asphalt emulsions. (3) Assess the potential for leaching of metals and hydrocarbons from the aggregate/tank bottom sludge road base material. (4) Provide recommendations on design/construction for road base material using tank bottom sludges.
The study will focus on determining the general quality of road base material for secondary and/or low traffic volume roads that can be made using crude oil tank bottom sludges. Initial studies will be concerned with characterizing the properties of the tank bottoms for commonly used asphalt emulsions characterizations. Additionally, the tank bottoms will be subjected to environmental analysis to characterize the potential for release of hazardous compounds from the finished asphalt road base.