Low cost rapid setting cement for airport runway repairs in strategically important airfields

The objective of this Phase I project is to develop low cost, rapid-setting-all-weather concrete materials that can be applied to craters, making damaged runways operational in less than 24 hours from the start of repair, requiring minimal logistical support, power, and requirements under extreme conditions. The materials will have the flexibility to repair everything from potholes to full-size craters or pavement for aprons or taxiways. The level of manpower skills required to make repairs will be minimized. The materials will be able to sustain heavy aircraft traffic in elevated temperatures, heavy rains, and other extreme weather conditions. A white paper and literature survey will be carried out to screen binder systems including alternative cements such as calcium sulfoaluminate, calcium aluminate, alkali-activated, magnesium phosphate binders, and the use of heat-resistant aggregate. Blending and ad hoc formulations of of these binders will be developed for strength gain and heat exposure compatible with the operation of F-35 and cargo aircraft in remote, hostile locations. Product delivery and production scaling-up production including supplying the materials with and without aggregate, will be studied.