The Bituminous Laboratory verifies asphalt concrete hot mix (ACHM) designs submitted by contractors and performs Loaded Wheel Testing for evaluation of the rutting potential of designs. Examples of work performed in this laboratory include: absorption and specific gravity tests for aggregates and ACHM, volumetric analysis of contractor submitted ACHM mix designs, laboratory scale Loaded Wheel Testing, ACHM density determination, and asphalt binder extractions.

For additional information, contact the Materials Division at (501) 569-2185 or by email at materials@ardot.gov.

The Chemistry Laboratory performs chemical analysis on items as diverse as structural paint and pavement marking paint to treated fence posts and diesel fuel. It also includes a unit that tests asphalt cement, emulsified asphalts, and other asphalt-based products as well as performs SHRP binder tests. Examples of other materials tested and tests performed in this laboratory include: aluminum sign materials, concrete bridge deck chloride content, delineators and delineator posts, epoxy resin adhesives, fabrics (underseals, filter, cotton), fly ash, galvanized steel articles, glass beads, linseed oil for concrete, paints, portland cement, preformed expansion joint fillers, roofing felt, slab bolsters, traffic cones, bar supports, concrete curing compounds, electrical materials, erosion control matting, fencing materials, glare screens, lime analysis, epoxies, pavement markings (raised and thermoplastic materials), reflectors, sign posts (painted steel), temporary striping tape, water analysis, abson recovery (reclaimed asphalt), preformed plastic gaskets, asphalt release agents, seasonal asphalt, joint sealers, and waterproofing and dampproofing materials.

For additional information, contact the Materials Division at (501) 569-2185 or by email at materials@ardot.gov.

All laboratory testing equipment from throughout the state is repaired, maintained and calibrated by the Equipment Section. The unit also keeps inventory records of the equipment and maintains required documentation on nuclear equipment. The Section Head serves as the Radiation Safety Officer for the Department.

For additional information, contact the Materials Division at (501) 569-2185 or by email at materials@ardot.gov.

The Sample Preparation Laboratory performs basic operations and tests on samples going to other laboratories for further testing, such as sample reduction, drying, and gradation analysis.

For additional information, contact the Materials Division at (501) 569-2185 or by email at materials@ardot.gov.

The Geotechnical/Soils Laboratory tests soils and aggregates, evaluates rock and soil samples obtained by the Geotechnical Field Crews, and makes recommendations for the Bridge Design, Roadway Design, Construction and Maintenance Divisions. Examples of work performed in this laboratory include: hydrometer analysis, Atterberg limit tests, R-value determinations, Triaxial tests, Resilient Modulus Tests, pH tests, sodium sulfate soundness tests, proctor tests, permeability tests, and subgrade and base material stabilization analysis.

For additional information, contact the Materials Division at (501) 569-2185 or by email at materials@ardot.gov.

The Structural Materials Laboratory tests portland cement, portland cement concrete, structural steel components and connectors, and plastic drainage pipe. This laboratory also periodically performs field inspections of precast concrete products. Examples of tests performed in this laboratory include: tensile strength of bolts, reinforcing steel and cable, compression strength of portland cement and portland cement concrete, elongation and compression strength of plastic pipe, load testing of pull boxes, and Rockwell/Brinell hardness of structural steel components.

For additional information, contact the Materials Division at (501) 569-2185 or by email at materials@ardot.gov.