While the Boston Big Dig tunnel accident demonstrated the critical nature of adhesive anchor installation, other applications also depend on proper techniques and materials for epoxy grouting of reinforcement. 

Part I of this joint presentation will be given by Rachel Cano and will focus on the drill and epoxy installation method for reinforcing steel, a vital element of full depth pavement repairs and a useful alternative in some new pavement construction situations. Despite years of experience with this method in the field, TxDOT continues to have mixed results with these installations. This presentation will give context to the current TxDOT specification for drill and epoxy installation and present results of a minor study comparing the pullout results when varying amounts of epoxy are used.

Part II, presented by Amanda Angelo, will cover the Adhesive Anchor Installer Certification.  She will speak about the importance of the certification from both a specifier and an installer standpoint, as well as explain the process of certification. 

Bios of our Presentation Team:

Rachel Cano

Rachel received her Master’s of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas in 2013 and has been an engineer with TxDOT’s Materials & Tests Division since then.  In addition to her academic background in supplementary cementitious materials, Rachel has experience in concrete and steel laboratory testing and has been applying that expertise to the world of rigid pavements.

Amanda Angelo

Amanda received her B.S. in Concrete Industry Management from Middle Tennessee State University and her M.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas. She began her construction materials career in Central Texas in 2006 and has experience in ready mix concrete, construction materials laboratory testing and management, and is currently the Fiber Specialist for Texas and surrounding states at Sika Corporation. She has been active in the ACI Central Texas Chapter since 2006 and has served on the Board of Directors and has held the position of Secretary, Vice President, and President (2012 & 2017). Amanda is heavily involved in the certification programs for the Central Texas Chapter and is an ACI certified Concrete Quality Technical Manager, Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I, Concrete Aggregate Testing Technician Level 1, Concrete Strength Testing Technician,  Concrete Laboratory Testing Technician Level 1, Concrete Flatwork Associate, and Adhesive Anchor Installer Piston-Plug & Retaining Cap. She is also a member of ACI Committee 544-00 Fiber Reinforced Concrete and ACI Committee 332-00 Residential Concrete Work.