Materials Engineering and Research
Behnke Materials Engineering offers comprehensive materials research and materials engineering in Milwaukee, WI, and beyond. We provide asphalt and concrete experts to agencies such as WisDOT and the Illinois Tollway to evaluate and improve the quality assurance program for accepting materials.
Materials Specifications
Material specifications are the easiest way to ensure a project will get the best HMA, PCC, or aggregate material or the longevity of the pavement. Our staff of engineers works with agencies (both big and small) to improve materials specifications, ensuring each agency receives materials with expected durability and strength.
Our materials engineers are familiar with PCC and HMA materials in both Wisconsin and Illinois. It is our job to elevate the quality and consistency of construction materials to ensure the longevity of pavements. Ask us how we have also worked to lower overall costs.
New Products Evaluation
The BME lab has been involved in several new product evaluations, including rejuvenators and longitudinal joint sealers. We have all the performance testing equipment to help determine whether new products will improve construction materials. Our previous clients have used our testing reports to submit them to agencies for inclusion in approved product lists or pilot programs. Call us today, and we can discuss testing plans.
Research
We have been the principal investigator (PI) on six WHRP projects since 2014. Our team has also been involved in the following research projects:
- WHRP 0092-19-05 Rubber Study for Wisconsin
- WHRP 0092-17-07 Evaluation of WI Mixes Using Performance Engineered Materials Testing Protocols
- WHRP 0092-15-09 Field Compaction and Density Validation Study
- WHRP 0092-17-04 Materials Aging Study
We have also investigated performance testing practices and the effects of varying solvents for asphalt binder extraction.
Forensic Investigations
No one wants their pavements to fail, but if they do, we have the tools to help determine the cause. We have been involved in many forensic evaluations. Some involve lawyers and insurance companies trying to assess blame and monetary claims; others include owners, consultants, or contractors who want to know whether they received the materials they paid for.
In most cases, we determine the cause of the failure, and more often than not, it could have been prevented by better materials specifications or on-site inspection and testing.