DRAFT_RFP.pdf

693JJ322R000003

SECTION C - Description/Specifications/Statement of Work

BACKGROUND

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Office of Infrastructure Research & Development (HRDI) conducts and oversees research and development programs and projects that address critical highway infrastructure needs and priorities of national importance. Studies focus on the design, materials, construction, operation, and preservation of highway pavements, bridges, culverts, tunnels, and other structures. In addition, HRDI provides expert technical assistance to other FHWA offices, other Federal agencies, State and local transportation organizations, industry, and academia.

Through an integrated and interdisciplinary research approach, HRDI provides state–of–the–art knowledge and tools with the goal of improving the safety, performance, and cost effectiveness of the Nation’s highway infrastructure, while minimizing the impacts that highway construction, operations, maintenance, and rehabilitation may have on the environment. Across the highway infrastructure spectrum, the contributions of stakeholders in the development and execution of multiple year Research & Development plans and roadmaps are key to the success of the office.

The work of HRDI is carried out by highly experienced researchers, including but not limited to, engineers, scientists, chemists, geologists, lab managers, interns, post-doctoral associates, visiting researchers, consultants, and technicians within twelve laboratories. Six of these laboratories (Asphalt Binder and Mixtures Laboratory, Aggregates and Petrographic Laboratory, Chemistry Laboratory, Concrete Laboratory, Corrosion and Coatings Laboratory, and Pavement Testing Facility) help support the research performed under the Infrastructure Materials and Pavements programs.

C.1.1 Asphalt Binder and Mixture Laboratory (ABML) The ABML specializes in the research of asphalt pavement binders and mixtures. This laboratory supports the Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA’s) efforts to develop, evaluate, and improve materials, mixture design technology, and performance-based tests for asphalt paving mixtures. The laboratory's activities are aimed at extending the life and improving the performance of asphalt pavement, reducing vehicle wear and tear, and shortening construction delays. The ABML conducts research in areas related to asphaltic materials for highway applications including aggregates, binders, bituminous mixtures, and recycled/reclaimed materials such as reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), reclaimed asphalt shingles (RAS), and ground tire rubber (GTR). The laboratory includes equipment for generation and characterization of laboratory-produced mixes simulating hot mix asphalt (HMA) and warm mix asphalt (WMA) mixture production and to simulate long-term pavement performance. The laboratory is also equipped to characterize field-core specimens through a variety of innovative testing procedures.

For more information about the ABML see:

https://highways.dot.gov/research/laboratories/binder-laboratory/asphalt-binder-mixtures-laboratory-overview and https://highways.dot.gov/research/laboratories/binder-laboratory/binder-laboratory-overview

C.1.2 Aggregate and Petrographic Laboratory (APL) The APL provides facilities for the evaluation, preparation, and testing of aggregate sources, products, and samples for use in concrete, asphalt mixtures, and granular base course applications. Staffed by an experienced geologist and petrographer, the APL conducts research, works with other Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC) laboratories in characterizing research materials and deterioration mechanisms, and assists in forensic evaluations of construction materials for others within the FHWA and with State departments of transportation (DOTs).

Facilities are available at TFHRC for characterizing highway materials using mechanical and durability tests, identification and quality testing of mineral aggregates, and troubleshooting of inferior quality materials or distress in concrete or asphalt using forensic petrography. The Petrography Laboratory includes state-of-the-art transmitted and reflected light compound microscopes and image-capturing tools, along with air-void parameter assessment using ASTM C457 test method for hardened air-entrained concrete. The APL collaborates with the Chemistry Laboratory, which is equipped to perform wet, analytical, and spectroscopic chemical methods.

The APL also works with the Asphalt Mixtures Laboratory and the Concrete Laboratory in evaluating the character and quality of aggregates and the performance of aggregates in mixtures and pavements, and supports the Structures Laboratory in evaluation of concrete and materials performance. For more information about the APL see:

https://highways.dot.gov/research/laboratories/aggregate-petrographic-laboratory/aggregate-petrographic-laboratory-overview.

C.1.3 Chemistry Laboratory (CHEM) The CHEM evaluates and conducts research into materials used in highway construction to better understand performance and failure mechanisms. New and/or revised standard test methods are also developed to improve and facilitate the chemical analysis of highway materials and to characterize and quantify new or alternative sustainable materials. In addition, CHEM assists with forensic investigations of premature failures of pavements and other highways structures. The Chemistry Laboratory is currently performing research in four principal areas associated with pavement materials: concrete durability, sustainability, bond performance of grout/repair materials, and quality assurance of asphalt binders. The fundamental information gained from the research is key to developing new testing standards and field procedures to evaluate the adequacy of the original paving materials and also ensure the optimal mechanical performance and durability of the final mix design. For more information about the Chemistry Laboratory see: https://highways.dot.gov/research/laboratories/chemistry-laboratory/chemistry-laboratory-overview.

C.1.4 Concrete Laboratory (CONC) The CONC delivers research-based recommendations to improve the durability, performance, economy, and sustainability of concrete infrastructure and collaborates with stakeholders in advancing emerging technologies and moving research results to practice. CONC investigates and characterizes component materials used for highway applications including cement, aggregate, supplementary cementitious materials, alternative cementitious materials, and varieties of concrete admixtures. It assesses the durability and mechanical properties of the concrete materials using both traditional standard test methods and by developing new standard methods that leverage recent scientific advancements. CONC supports Agency and Department initiatives, such as the Every Day Counts program, Performance Engineered Mixtures, and development of Guide Specification for Structural Design with UHPC. CONC supports forensic investigations and provides technical assistance within FHWA, the Department of Transportation, and as requested by state and local partners across the United States. More information about CONC is available at: https://highways.dot.gov/research/laboratories/concrete-laboratory/concrete-laboratory-overview.

C.1.5 Corrosion and Coatings Laboratory (CCL) The CCL supports the Corrosion and Coatings Program to advance the practice and develop solutions for corrosion prevention and mitigation methods related to highway infrastructure. The lab focuses its research on improving the durability and performance of innovative corrosion-resistant metals and coating systems to prevent corrosion damage and assist structural preservation. CCL’s research is focused on better understanding corrosion mechanisms, as well as how to mitigate or prevent corrosion damage to highway structures. The lab continues to develop and analyze the effectiveness of innovative coatings test procedures while evaluating the durability of new coating systems, especially environmentally-compliant technologies for the corrosion protection of steel bridges. CCL evaluates the stress corrosion cracking in stainless steels, studies corrosion behavior of various concrete reinforcement, including: post-tension strands; reinforcing bars; and other types of reinforcement in concrete, The lab assists State departments of transportation (DOTs) with the evaluation of corrosion- and coating-related issues encountered in various environmental conditions. The lab performs microscopic examinations on metals to assess the micro-structural makeup and potential damage due to corrosion. While the laboratory still relies on physical experiments to advance the understanding of corrosion, the desire of developing corrosion modeling and simulation methods is reflected in the long-term strategic plan. For more information about the Corrosion and Coatings Laboratory see: https://highways.dot.gov/research/laboratories/coatings-corrosion-laboratory/coatings-corrosion-laboratory-overview.

C.1.6 Pavement Testing Facility (PTF) The PTF uses rapid pavement testing of full-scale pavement structures to evaluate the durability of both new and existing pavement materials. Recent testing has contributed to the development and verification of new specifications, designs, and test procedures for rigid and flexible pavements. The facility also assesses the impact of different tires and loads on pavement performance with the objective of advancing the knowledge of pavement engineering and the performance of highway materials and pavement structures.

The facility uses Pavement Test Machines (PTMs) to simulate truck traffic under controlled loading and pavement temperatures. PTMs can apply wheel loads comparable to many years of service within months of operation to collect pavement distress and performance data. The use of two machines allows for simultaneous testing of two pavement lanes for the parametric evaluation of different pavements under the same ambient temperature, moisture conditions and age. The facility is in the process transitioning from legacy PTMs to 2 new PTMs. The PTF is also in the process of redesign and reconstruction of the pavement test lanes to expand the focus to the program. Redesign will include the instrumentation to monitor the health of the pavement field and collect data on the performance of the different pavement structures. Reconstruction of the PTF is slated for 2022. A new laboratory building was recently constructed to support the program. For more information about the PTF see:

https://highways.dot.gov/research/laboratories/pavement-testing-laboratory/pavement-testing-facility-overview.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this requirement is to provide non-personal research and technical support for Infrastructure Materials Research Programs at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center

(TFHRC).

The Contractor shall provide the overall management and operation of the following laboratory(s): Asphalt Binder and Mixtures Laboratory (ABML), Aggregates and Petrographic Laboratory (APL), Chemistry Laboratory (CHEM), Concrete Laboratory (CONC), Corrosion and Coatings Laboratory (CCL), and Pavement Test Facility (PTF).

Overall management and operation of IML shall include, but is not limited to, the following actions:

Daily operation and maintenance of laboratory test equipment;

Specimen preparation and logging;

Materials testing and evaluation;

Data acquisition and storage;

Data scrutiny;

Data analysis; and Documentation including reporting of findings, analysis, and recommendations.

If the Contractor is operating multiple laboratories under the scope of this PWS, the Contractor shall provide personnel that can be shared between these multiple laboratories and technical support tasks on an as needed basis. The work for any specific laboratory or research program area may be performed, as directed by the relevant Federal Lab Manager (FLM), within any of the facilities at TFHRC.

The Contractor may be required to make accommodations to other contract and government personnel (as directed by the relevant FLM) who may need to use laboratory facilities, equipment, and materials. The Contractor is responsible for providing the Government with written documentation in regard to any impact on work, scope, schedule, and budget before the accommodation of additional personnel is initiated. The Government will attempt to provide at least two weeks’ notice to the Contractor and shall provide oversight of the additional personnel while they are working in the laboratories.

The Government may undertake or award other contracts or task orders for work at or in close proximity to the site of the work. The Contractor shall fully cooperate with the other Contractors and with Government employees and shall carefully adapt scheduling and performing the work under subsequent task orders to accommodate the working environment, heeding any direction that may be provided by the COR. The Contractor shall not commit or permit any act that will interfere with the performance of work by any other Contractor or by Government employees.

DETAILED REQUIREMENT

The Contractor shall provide the following types of services under this contract to support the FHWA Non-Personal Research & Technical Support for Infrastructure Materials

Laboratories requirement. Laboratory support includes providing all the necessary engineers, technicians, laborers, and other related staff to meet the objectives of the contract. Requirements are listed as general lab support (common to multiple labs), and by individual laboratory to provide an outline of the work that may be conducted. Research may require collaboration between laboratories. All work shall be defined under task orders awarded under the ID/IQ contract. Government furnished property and facilities will be identified at the task order level.

C.3.1 General Lab Support (All Laboratories)

a) Communication and Outreach Work to be generally performed may include, but is not limited to:

Develop detailed research plans in coordination with the FLM;

Organize contract personnel in the lab to maximize efficiency;

Communicate with federal staff about operation and development of the laboratories and research programs;

Content generation and updating of research laboratory outreach media (e.g., websites) ;

Write research reports, documenting experimental results, and research activities;

Reports will follow FHWA publication guidelines as required;

Prepare other reports, journal papers, and other publications;

Prepare and present research briefing materials (e.g., PowerPoint Slides) for meetings, conferences, newsletters, and other presentations;

Attend workshops/conferences/training (Pre-written authorization from the

COR or TOCOR is required);

Prepare and provide laboratory tours, training, and demonstration of equipment.

Facilitate ad-hoc collaborative research efforts;

Organize and set up exhibits at conferences and similar events;

Represent FHWA research at exhibits;

Assist with the organization of conferences, workshops, and working groups;

Plan, organize, and manage technical meetings; and Process emails, initiating and responding.

b) Laboratory Management and Service

Provide onsite contract employee oversight to ensure their work practices comply with all applicable occupational safety and health standards (OSHA) and contract terms and conditions. This includes following TFHRC procedures for fire drills and facility safety procedures;

Maintain a safe working environment. This includes reviewing the annual laboratory safety plan with employees and FLM, revising the plan as needed, and performing regular required safety training. The laboratory safety plan will have provisions for employee training on operation of all equipment and machinery required to conduct research.

Ensure the safe operation of all equipment, including ensuring there is no bodily harm to operator, mechanical damage to machine, or research specimens;

Develop and/or execute laboratory improvement plans, as directed, for the required laboratories to enhance laboratory capability, facilities, and function. Develop and execute experimental work plans based on requested research. The general plan will include test setup, types and number of tests, instrumentation, test methods, duration of testing, time schedule, and level of effort for each labor category. The plan will also include data collection and storage procedures and an outline of reporting;

Develop project management and tracking plans;

Develop lab staff utilization plans for workload optimization;

Organize regular research project status meetings;

Conduct laboratory experimental testing and analysis;

Conduct field experimental testing and analysis;

Conduct forensic investigation to State DOTs and other transportation agencies;

Perform software maintenance on laboratory hardware and software infrastructure;

Maintain, repair, or replace laboratory equipment as needed. Some equipment may require service or warranty agreements;

Coordinate with other internal and external service groups for repair, modification, or fabrication of laboratory equipment;

Calibrate mechanical testing equipment and instruments. Test devices will be calibrated following procedure requirements for certification and manufacturer’s recommendations;

Maintain and advance the in-laboratory IT structure including laboratory network and computers;

Procure equipment and or material to support laboratory experiments and/or operation to include the rental of equipment as required. Written authorization from the COR is required to procure equipment and material;

Operate and maintain government-owned vehicles and report required information supporting Government vehicle use;

Coordinate additional testing and analysis with other TFHRC Labs as needed;

Maintain, clean, and organize laboratory facilities. This includes keeping each of the laboratories free of debris, dust, and dirt; including bench tops, sinks and floor. All laboratories must be kept in a presentable and professional fashion; and

Dispose of waste material and debris in accordance with TFHRC policies.

c) Information Management Manage, organize, and maintain laboratory and field test results with associated background information and records in conformance with established data management practices. Maintain an inventory and catalog of all test materials;

Work to include all laboratory test data on the info-materials system;

Maintain a FHWA Accountable Property list for each of the designated laboratories. This includes working with the FHWA Accountable Property Officer to conduct audits, add Government property to the inventory, or remove surplus property from the inventory;

Maintain and update frequently used ASTM and AASHTO test methods in appropriate digital files in compliance with FHWA copyright requirements; and

Maintain a laboratory safety plan and chemical inventory with associated Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), as outlined above.

C.3.2 Asphalt Binder and Mixtures Laboratory (ABML) Research Focus Areas

Reclaimed and sustainable materials;

Performance specifications for asphalt pavements;

Refined asphalt binder specifications;

Viscoelastoplastic continuum damage;

Artificial intelligence, data science, and automation;

Impacts of connected vehicles on pavement performance;

Premium-performing wearing course materials;

Age-retarding materials; and Asphalt pavement resilience.

To support the research focus areas, work to be performed may include, but is not limited to, the following:

Perform standardized material tests of asphalt binder, asphalt mixture, aggregate, asphalt binder and mixture additives, and other relevant highway infrastructure materials;

Perform non-standardized or customized material tests of asphalt binder, asphalt mixture, aggregate, asphalt binder and mixture additives, and other relevant highway infrastructure materials;

Model, constitutively, numerically, and through machine learning, the performance of asphalt binder, asphalt mixture, and asphalt pavement systems to support laboratory and research activities;

Design, fabricate, and assemble experimental load frames and apparatuses;

Connect, operate, and maintain Asphalt Mixture Performance Tester (AMPT), MTS, and potentially other hydraulic test systems;

Connect, operate, and maintain ductilimeters, laser-based texture scanners, rheometers, ovens, environmental chambers, spectrometers, mixers, centrifuges, vacuum pumps, sieve shakers, and other laboratory test equipment;

Develop instrumentation plans to monitor behavior of test specimens. Execute the plan through installation and setup of sensors, cameras, and data acquisition systems;

Develop and execute appropriate plans, documentation, testing, and procedures to maintain laboratory accreditation through AASHTO resource (http://aashtoresource.org/accreditation-details?LaboratoryID=84x1g2JxWOk*V);

Design, fabricate, and/or procure experimental test specimens and component materials;

Coordinate and conduct field tests with the FHWA Pavement Test Facility and external research collaborators;

Coordinate additional testing and analysis with the FHWA Chemistry Lab;

Coordinate with FHWA Mobile Asphalt Technology Center;

Collaborate with internal and external partners to further the objectives of the Asphalt

Materials Research Program;

Mine research data from national- and state-level research programs to support initiatives of the Asphalt Materials Research Program;

Develop machine learning algorithms to draw insights from internal and external datasets;

Collect data (e.g., laboratory, field, computational) and reduce it into an understandable and presentable form. Develop intelligent dashboards to visualize data as needed; and

Perform other activities related to facilitation and conduct of the Asphalt Materials Research Program.

Prepare asphalt binder and mixture specimens of varying compositions and geometries.

Store, manage, use, and dispose of chemicals in accordance with material data safety sheets and other OSHA and TFHRC procedures.

Execute, safely and accurately, at a minimum, the following AASHTO and ASTM tests for asphalt materials, in addition to all test methods in laboratory accreditation:

o AASHTO M 320, M 323, M 332 o AASHTO R 35, R 62 o AASHTO PP 99 o AASHTO T 322, T 378,T 381,T 391 o AASHTO TP 93, TP 105 o TP 107,TP 108, TP 113, TP 124, TP 125, TP 132, TP 133, TP 134, TP 141 o ASTM D7313, D8044, D8159, D8225

Staff Competencies and Capabilities To efficiently perform the work noted above, the proposed collective staff should possess or be capable of the following competencies and capabilities:

Safe operation of MTS and AMPT servo-hydraulic test equipment;

Safe operation of Smart Tracker Hamburg Wheel Tracking Device;

Safe operation of ovens typically featured in asphalt binder and mixture laboratories;

Safe operation of rheometers and ductilometers;

Safe operation of centrifuges, asphalt binder recovery apparatuses, and automated binder extraction equipment;

Safe operation of spectrometers;

Ability to lift heavy objects (up to 50 lbs);

Maintenance of MTS and AMPT servo-hydraulic test equipment;

Use of MTS FlexTest software;

Use of MTS TestSuite MultiPurpose Elite Application Software;

Use of AMPT servo-hydraulic test equipment;

Operate, diagnose extensometer, sensors, and linear variable differential transducers

(LVDTs);

Use of Anton Paar, TA Instruments dynamic shear rheometers and software.

Use of Cannon bending beam rheometer and software;

Knowledge of asphalt binder rheology, asphalt chemistry, linear viscoelastic theory using mechanical models (e.g., Maxwell), and polymer science;

Knowledge of asphalt mixture design, fracture mechanics, continuum damage mechanics, finite element analysis, and constitutive modeling of pavement systems;

Knowledge of machine learning algorithms and application avenues;

Experience performing literature reviews and developing robust, peer-reviewed technical journal and other publications;

Ability to synthesize information presented at technical meetings, team meetings, and research conferences;

Exceptional oral and written presentation capabilities;

Experience interacting with national and international stakeholders in the asphalt materials realm;

Data management techniques;

Research project management (Waterfall and Agile minimum);

Advanced knowledge of statistics;

C.3.3 Aggregate and Petrographic Laboratory (APL)

Microscopic studies of materials, aggregates, and deterioration mechanisms in pavements and materials, including forensic studies and evaluations of the condition of older structures;

Research on Alkali Carbonate Reaction (ACR) of coarse aggregates in concrete;

Research on Alkali Silica Reaction (ASR) of coarse and fine aggregate in concrete;

Study reactivity of fly ash, other supplemental cementitious materials (SCMs), and alternative cementitious materials (SCMs) in concrete, including collaboration with FHWA Exploratory Advanced Research (EAR) research projects at several universities;

Study the performance of non-standard and marginal aggregates for potential uses or blending in highway construction materials;

Study air-void distribution and air-void properties in both concrete and asphalt mixtures, including collaboration with small business innovative research (SBIR) projects researching new technologies;

Help in the selection and evaluation of aggregates for use in research by other TFHRC laboratories;

Evaluation of the particle shape, angularity, and texture of fine and coarse aggregates;

To support the research focus areas, work to be performed may include, but is not limited to, the following:

Develop work plans for individual research projects and for other forensic investigations or collaboration projects with other labs, offices, divisions or agencies as assigned or planned;

Examine, document, and log-in all samples received for examination and testing;

Perform examinations and petrographic analyses on aggregates, concrete, and asphalt mixture samples at various levels as needed -- visual, stereomicroscope, petrographic microscope;

In collaboration with the Chemistry Lab use other technologies such as the scanning electron microscope, and X-ray diffraction, etc. in general accord with accepted petrography practices, methods, and guides, such as those developed and maintained by ASTM Subcommittee C09.65 on Petrography:

o C294 Standard Descriptive Nomenclature for Constituents of Concrete Aggregates;

o C295/C295M Standard Guide for Petrographic Examination of Aggregates for Concrete;

o C457/C457M Standard Test Method for Microscopical Determination of Parameters of the Air-Void System in Hardened Concrete;

o C823/C823M Standard Practice for Examination and Sampling of Hardened Concrete in Constructions;

o C856/C856M Standard Practice for Petrographic Examination of Hardened Concrete; and o C1723 Standard Guide for Examination of Hardened Concrete Using Scanning Electron Microscopy.

Prepare authoritative petrographic reports for review and approval of the FLM to be distributed to the interested parties in the project, examination or investigation. These reports often serve as the basis of a technical paper, FHWA report and/or recommendations to engineers in the field;

Sample and perform standard tests on fine and coarse aggregate in accordance with AASHTO and ASTM standards working with other TFHRC laboratories for specific projects;

Perform non-standardized or customized material tests of aggregate, mixtures, constituents, and other relevant highway infrastructure materials;

Operate and maintain microscopes, cameras, computers, other image capture devices, and tools in the petrographic laboratory;

Operate and maintain saws, lapping and polishing machines and devices, thin-section machines, microscopes, cameras, computers, other tools, and equipment in the petrographic preparation laboratory;

Maintain the competency and expertise of the APL by participation in the ASTM Subcommittee C09.65 on petrography and attending relevant workshops, symposia, and meetings where petrographic methods and highway materials deterioration mechanisms are presented and discussed;

Participate in relevant interlaboratory studies and round-robin testing and characterization of aggregate materials and mixtures containing aggregate;

Manage the APL and perform professional-level evaluations of aggregates and other highway materials;

Prepare quality polished sections and thin sections for evaluation by the petrographer/geologist;

Operate and maintain petrographic microscopes and other evaluation and image capture equipment;

Operate and maintain petrographic saws, lapping and polishing, and thin-section preparation equipment;

Operate the AIMS II devices to assess aggregate shape and texture;

Coordinate with FHWA Mobile Asphalt Technology Center and Mobile Concrete

Technology Center as needed for aggregate examination and petrography; and Review research data and technical literature from national- and state-level research programs to support initiatives of the FHWA Materials Research Program.

Staff Competencies and Capabilities To efficiently perform the work noted above, the proposed collective staff should possess or be capable of the following competencies and capabilities:

Evaluation of both Recycled Concrete Aggregates (RCA) and Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) materials for use in pavements;

Identify minerals and rock types in pavement surface courses as they affect pavement friction and texture; and

Use image processing software and equipment to advance materials research goals.

C.3.4 Chemistry Laboratory (CHEM) Research Focus Areas Develop test methods to determine the propensity of aggregates to form expansive alkali silica reaction gels if used in concrete;

Develop test methods to analyze highway materials in the field using handheld X-ray

Fluorescence (XRF) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometers;

Investigate the use of recycled materials, typically post-consumer plastic scrap in hot mix asphalt paving applications with emphasis on compatibility and phase behavior; and Develop test methods for the analysis of asphalt binders for additives such as rejuvenating agents and anti-strip additives.

To support the research focus areas, work to be performed may include, but is not limited to, the following:

Perform standard material tests (typically AASHTO and ASTM methods) of asphalt binders, aggregates, cement, glass beads and other highway construction materials;

Devise new test methods for the analysis of highways construction materials as required and submit those to AASHTO;

Determine chemical composition of highway construction materials such as asphalt binders, aggregates, cement, and other additives as required using nonstandard methods;

Study the phase behavior of chemically modified asphalt binders which have been reacted with labile materials like epoxy resins and isocyanates; and Evaluate the effect of recycled plastics, typically postconsumer scrap, on the phase behavior of asphalt binders.

Staff Competencies and Capabilities To efficiently perform the work noted above, the proposed collective staff should possess or be capable of the following competencies and capabilities:

Operation of a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) for the quantitative analysis of aggregates, cements and asphalt binders to determine the content of portlandite in concrete and aggregate materials and additives used in asphalt binders;

Analysis of steel and alloys by the safe operation of a glow discharge spectrometer as a service to the structures laboratory;

In-depth knowledge of alkali silica reaction (ASR) gels;

Determination of the structure of alkali silica reaction (ASR) gels using Raman spectroscopy;

In-depth knowledge of Raman spectroscopy and aggregate chemistry as it relates to the formation of ASR gels in concrete;

Operation of the scanning electron microscope (SEM), especially the generation of elemental maps using the EDAX accessory;

Identification of additives present in highway materials such as asphalt additives, for example recycled engine oil bottoms (REOB) and liquid amine antistrip materials is important;

Generation and interpretation of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra to identify such additives;

Generation of FTIR maps of highway materials;

Quantitative analysis of aqueous solutions using inductively coupled plasma (ICP);

Quantitative analysis of highway materials using x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, both energy dispersive (EDXRF) and wavelength dispersive (WDXRF) spectrometers;

Calibration of handheld XRF spectrometers for the analysis of asphalt binders, aggregates, glass beads, highway marking paints and other highway construction materials;

Development of test methods for field use using handheld XRF and FTIR spectrometers;

Use of handheld FTIR spectrometer for the analysis of highway materials and interpretation of the spectra;

Preparation of fused beads and pressed powder pellets for XRF analysis;

Use of standard laboratory equipment such as ovens, fume hoods, inert gas glove boxes, grinding equipment, centrifuges particle size analyzers and the like; and Elucidate the mineralogy of aggregates, fly ashes and other concrete components using x-ray diffraction spectrometry (XRD).

C.3.5 Concrete Laboratory (CONC) Research Focus Areas Reclaimed and sustainable cement, supplementary cementitious materials, and concrete;

Repair material selection and specification for concrete pavements;

Durability and mechanical performance specifications of cement-based materials;

Development of standard test methods and the ability to quantify typical levels of variation;

Performance of cement-based materials in in-service applications and performance within a structural system; and Emerging topics related to the concrete materials research program.

Perform standardized material tests of concrete and constituent materials, including cement, supplementary cementitious materials, chemical admixtures, and aggregates;

Perform non-standardized or customized material tests of concrete and constituent materials, including cement, supplementary cementitious materials, chemical admixtures, and aggregates;

Model, constitutively, numerically, and through machine learning, the performance of cement-based materials and concrete pavement systems to support laboratory and research activities;

Design, mix, and cast specimens of cement-based materials in accordance with standard mixture design criteria;

Fabricate and assemble specimen molds and test equipment, frames, and apparatuses;

Connect, operate, and maintain material mixers in (e.g., Hobart) and associated components to properly mix cement and concrete materials;

Connect, operate, and maintain hydraulic test systems (e.g., Forney) and associated components to measure mechanical properties and response to loading;

Connect, operate, and maintain environmental control systems (e.g., Darwin, Thermotron);

Connect, operate, and maintain specialized testing equipment outlined in CONC technical publications. This includes, but is not limited to, Dual Ring Test, X-ray fluorescence, Dynamic Vapor Sorption Analyzer, Differential Scanning Calorimeter, and Isothermal calorimeter;

Connect, operate, and maintain ovens, vacuum pumps, sieve shakers, and other laboratory test equipment;

Develop and maintain equipment control programs (e.g., Python, LabVIEW);

Develop and execute appropriate plans, documentation, testing, and procedures to maintain laboratory accreditation through AASHTO re:source;

(http://aashtoresource.org/accreditation-details?LaboratoryID=tNVxzufaC5M*V);

Design, fabricate, and/or procure experimental test specimens, component materials, and equipment;

Coordinate and conduct field tests with the FHWA Pavement Test Facility and external research collaborators;

Coordinate additional testing and analysis with the FHWA Chemistry Lab;

Coordinate with FHWA Mobile Concrete Technology Center;

Collaborate with internal and external partners to further the objectives of the Concrete

Materials Research Program;

Collect data (e.g., laboratory, field, computational) and reduce it into an understandable and presentable form. Develop intelligent dashboards to visualize data;

Perform other activities related to facilitation and conduct of the Asphalt Materials

Research Program; and Maintain a material inventory log for materials and specimens received at the CONC.

To efficiently perform the work noted above, the proposed collective staff should possess or be capable of the following competencies and capabilities:

Safe and effective operation of Forney test equipment hydraulic test equipment. Safe operation of environmental control systems, including Darwin, Thermotron, and Cincinnati SubZero;

Safe operation and preparation of specimens for specialized testing, including X-ray fluorescence, differential scanning calorimeter, and dynamic vapor sorption;

Safe operation of ovens typically featured in material laboratories, including ensuring there is no bodily harm to operator, mechanical damage to machine, or research specimens;

Ability to lift heavy objects (up to 50 lbs);

Trained forklift operator in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.178;

Operate, diagnose, and repair extensometer, sensors, and linear variable differential transducers (LVDTs);

Program and operate software for equipment control and data collection (e.g., Python or

LabVIEW based systems);

Knowledge of concrete mixture design, fracture mechanics, continuum damage mechanics, finite element analysis, and constitutive modeling of pavement systems;

Experience performing literature reviews and developing robust, peer-reviewed technical journal, and other publications;

Ability to synthesize information presented at technical meetings, team meetings, and research conferences;

Exceptional oral and written presentation capabilities with proven skills in delivering peer-reviewed publications and Government reports;

Experience interacting with national and international stakeholders in the concrete materials realm;

Data management techniques;

Research project management and the ability to effectively develop research work plans based on the scientific method;

Advanced knowledge of statistics;

Prepare concrete and cementitious specimens of varying compositions and geometries;

Store, manage, use, and dispose of chemicals and waste in accordance with material data safety sheets and other OSHA and TFHRC procedures; and Execute, safely and accurately, at a minimum, the following AASHTO and ASTM tests for asphalt materials, in addition to all test methods in laboratory accreditation:

o ASTM C39, C78, C150, C157, C469, C496, C512, C595, C1556, C1585, C1856 o AASHTO TP119 o AASHTO PP84

C.3.6 Corrosion and Coatings Laboratory (CCL)

Material sampling and characterization;

Durability of metals used in transportation;

Field corrosion testing for performance evaluation; and Field coating evaluation and coating application for preventive maintenance.

Develop research test programs based on needs;

Draft experimental plans, set-ups, and other related sketches’ Collect data (laboratory, field, or computational) and reduce data including data visualization.

Conduct standardized CCL testing such as reference electrodes, pH meter, voltmeter, Potentiostat, magnetic and electromagnetic dry film thickness gages, holiday detector, colorometer, gloss meter, ImageJ software for rust creepage, ultrasound thickness gage, pitting depth gage, and temperature and humidity meters. Conduct chemical test of various samples and materials often associated with corrosion and coatings such as ion chromatography for identifying and determining soluble ions on steel and coating surfaces, titration system for measuring chlorides in concrete and soil samples;

Conduct specialized laboratory testing such as salt-fog chambers and Ultraviolet (UV) chambers that provide controlled environment for cyclic corrosion testing of coated panels and metal parts. Use of an inverted optical microscope to observe corrosion damage at microscopic level of metal, concrete, and coating materials;

Conduct large-scale experimentation used for measuring long-term corrosion behavior of cables and reinforcing bars that are exposed to corrosive conditions, such as chloride and sulfate ions and wet-dry cycles;

Conduct experiments at CCL’s environmental chambers for evaluating short- and long-term corrosion performance of metals in grout and concrete;

Develop maintenance, safety, inventory, and innovation plans for all lab zones;

Design, program, install, operate, and manage automated data collection systems;

Perform numerical modelling and service life modeling, such as COMSOL

Multiphysics, for studying chloride ion migration and corrosion/coating process;

Perform other activities related to facilitation and conduct of the CCL research program;

Provide technical assistance to our stakeholders and customers on highway coatings and corrosion-related issues;

Perform data reduction and data analysis;

Perform data interpretation and reporting;

Provide technical assistance to the Long Term Bridge Performance (LTBP) Program;

Develop instrumentation plans;

Develop corrosion and coating-related test protocols following the format of the LTBP program; and Other emerging topics related to the corrosion and coatings research program.

Staff Competencies and Capabilities To efficiently perform the work noted above the proposed collective staff should possess or be capable of the following competencies and capabilities:

Ability to design, setting up, and performing index laboratory tests per standard ASTM, AASHTO, and other relevant test standards, specialized testing, scaled model tests, and full scale tests;

Ability to design, program, install, and maintain instruments and data collection systems;

Data management techniques;

Computer simulation and modeling;

Service life modeling and remaining service life estimation;

Data science and artificial intelligence (AI);

Data analytics and visualization;

Upgrade and modify existing laboratory facilities;

Maintain a laboratory safety plan and adhere to all applicable rules. Store, manage, use, and dispose of chemicals in accordance with material data safety sheets and other OSHA and TFHRC procedures; and

Experience with research-related electronics, sensors (mechanical, electrical, wireless), and automation.

C.3.7 Pavement Test Facility (PTF)

Evaluation of pavement design methodologies and sensitivity Resiliency of pavement structures and systems o Drainage o Unbound/bound base gradations

Asphalt mix performance evaluation on aging and fatigue.

o Premium Materials o Mix types o RAP

Inverted Pavement Systems Characterization of unbound materials Geostructural aspects of pavements Refining the use of waste materials Refining the use of contaminated bases Pavement preservation NDE Validation R&D o Quality Assurance/IC o Pavement layer(s) thickness and stiffness o Surface distress measurement o Imagine (crack detection)

To support the research focus areas, work to be performed may include, but is not limited to, the following:

Maintain the Pavement Test Facility, which includes the following:

o Pavement field and utilities supporting the PTF;

o Protect all above ground power cables and instrumentation wires supporting the PTF Pavement laboratory building;

o Area surrounding the PTF; and o Pavement Test Pits.

Monitor and maintain the health of the pavement test field;

Maintain Pavement Test Machines (PTMs) per the manufacture’s recommendation and schedule;

Maintain all equipment, tools, devices, data collection systems, and instrumentation under the care of the PTF;

Design, fabricate, or procure experimental test equipment;

Develop pavement load schedule to compare the performance between test lanes according to the research and experimental objectives;

Operate the PTMs per the manufacturer’s procedures and recommendations;

Perform pavement test section experiments;

Develop and program data collection systems to evaluate pavement performance;

Select, calibrate, and install instrumentation to evaluate the performance of pavements.

Tools may include:

o Strain gages;

o Moisture sensors;

o Dynamic pressure cells;

o Soil strain gauges and other related devices; and o Optic fibers

Conduct activities to access in-situ condition of pavements structure and/or distress, which may include the operation of the following test equipment :

o Falling Weight Deflectometer ASTM D4694 - 09(2020);

o Light Weight Deflectometer ASTM E2583;

o Nuclear Density Gauge ASTM D6938-10;

o GeoGauge ASTM D6758 – 18;

o Dynamic Drive Cone ASTM D6951 / D6951M – 09;

o Core Sampling, AASHTO R67-20;

o Rut Measurement Devices;

o Crack Mapping Devices;

o Rolling Density Meter; and o GPR.

Store and manage any collected data;

Reduce and analyze data in coordination with FHWA staff;

Perform forensic analysis of pavement test sections;

Prepare reports on experimental results in coordination with FHWA staff;

Conduct supplemental experiments in the test pits;

Perform numerical modelling of pavement structures using finite element, finite difference, and discrete element methods;

Perform other activities related to facilitate the operation and research at the PTF; and Support activities associated PTF reconstruction project.

To efficiently perform the work noted above the proposed collective staff should possess or be capable of the following competencies and capabilities:

Knowledge of machine control systems (e.g., Hydraulic, Mechanical, Electrical);

Safe operation of ATLaS PTMs ensuring there is no bodily harm to operator(s), mechanical damage to machine, or damage to pavement research site;

Ability to design, set-up, and perform accelerated pavement experiments with the

PTMs;

Ability to apply trouble shooting techniques for the repair of the PTM;

Ability to lift heavy objects (up to 50 lbs);

Ability to apply rigging techniques to lift and move heavy object with machinery;

Ability to safely operate small engine equipment, including but not limited to, pavement. saws, pressure washers, blowers, and compressors ensuring there is no bodily harm to operator, mechanical damage to machine, or damage to research products;

Trained forklift operator in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.178;

Ability to safely operate a skid-steer loader;

Knowledge of asphalt mix design;

Knowledge in the geotechnical aspects of pavements;

Ability to perform in situ test to assess the condition of pavements (explained in work above);

Ability to develop instrumentation plans;

Ability to design, program and install software systems (e.g., Python, LoggerNet, LabVIEW), and maintain instruments and data collection systems;

Knowledge of the pavement instrumentation identified in research focus areas;

Ability to perform numerical modelling of pavement structures using finite element, finite difference, and discrete element methods;

Ability to interact with national and international stakeholders in the asphalt pavements;

Program and operate software for equipment control and data collection (e.g., Python or LabVIEW based systems);

Knowledge relevant AASHTO test methods

• T88, T89, T90, T99, T100, T180, T193, T255

KICK-OFF MEETING

The Contractor shall attend an in-person [or virtual] kick-off meeting within 60 days of the contract award. The objective of this meeting is to introduce attendees, to provide an opportunity for Contractors to meet with the Contracting Office (CO) and/or Contract Administrator, the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR), define roles and responsibilities, and respond to questions. Contractor Key Personnel shall attend this meeting.

The costs incurred to attend the kick-off meeting are unallowable direct costs under the contract and, therefore, cannot be charged as direct costs to the Government.

IDIQ PROGRESS REPORTS

The Contractor shall submit an electronic copy (2016 or higher Microsoft (MS) Office or Adobe Acrobat) of a contract level consolidated monthly progress report to the Contracting Officer (CO) and/or Contract Administrator, and the COR, by the 10th of the month following the calendar month being reported. The costs incurred in the administrative reporting are unallowable direct costs under the contract and, therefore, cannot be charged as direct costs to the Government. Contractors are to handle such costs in accordance with their disclosure statements/cost accounting systems.

The report shall provide, for all active TOs under the contract, a summary that includes at a minimum:

(a) TO number, TO title, TO type (i.e., FFP or CPFF), period of performance, TOCOR.

(b) A description of any problem encountered or anticipated that will affect the completion of any individual TO within the time and fiscal constraints as set forth in the TO, together with recommended solution to such problem; or, a statement that no problem was encountered.

(c) For CPFF only, a tabulation of the planned, actual and cumulative person-hours expended by the personnel identified in each TO.

i. Actual bills submitted by subcontractors for services procured--accountable documentation.

(d) For CPFF only, a chart showing:

i. Current and cumulative expenditures versus planned expenditure for each TO.

ii. Cumulative expenditures versus obligated funds.

(e) A summary on a task by task basis for all work under the specific TO that includes:

i. A clear and complete account of work performed on each task and an outline of the work to be accomplished during the next reporting period.

ii. Identified risks.

iii. Plan to mitigate identified risks.

iv. Project schedule status based on opinion of the PM, shown as red (major delays and significant impact overall), yellow (slight delay to schedule but minimum impact overall), and green (on schedule).

(f) For TOs that the period of performance has expired and/or the technical requirements have been completed, the Contractor shall include a statement indicating this status.

(g) Actual bills submitted by subcontractors for services procured--accountable documentation.

(h) Description of any travel during the quarter, including the purpose, cost and personnel of each trip stated in Section G.

(i) Project Schedule - (Task Order…