For roadways where tire/pavement noise is an issue, diamond ground surfaces are the solution of choice for producing quiet concrete pavements. This can be accomplished using conventional diamond grinding techniques or the Next Generation Concrete Surface (NGCS), which is the quietest non-porous concrete pavement surface available.

The choice of road repair methods can save fuel and reduce dependence on oil imports. Diamond grinding and joint resealing a concrete pavement is three times more energy efficient than a typical asphalt overlay.

Nearly every concrete road repair project raises the question of how to handle the resulting concrete residue, or slurry, generated during sawing and diamond grinding operations. In an attempt to clarify these issues, the IGGA in 2009 entered into a research project with North Dakota State University (NDSU). This research studied CGR from different areas across the country.

The introduction of diamond-grinding surfaces on bridge decks has created some challenges, however, that can be easily overcome following a few simple tips. Ensure tight line and grade controls when paving, add additional concrete thickness, check your steel, control your slump, slow down, know your deck and walk-behind and short wheel base grinders should not be used.

Recently, there has been a growing interest in controlling noise at the source through the type of pavement selected. For existing highways with noise issues, diamond ground surfaces are the solution of choice for producing quiet concrete pavements. This can be accomplished using conventional diamond grinding techniques or the recently developed Next Generation Concrete Surface (NGCS).

In a typical bridge construction project, too often the zone between the bridge and the road is left with a gap that is prone to disruptive physical conditions. Poor riding bridges reached an all-time high in 2007 and an IDOT research team submitted a comprehensive Research Problem Statement to Iowa State University that proposed a solution for eliminating the bump at the end of the bridge. Diamond grinding was presented as a solution.