The Data Collection and Investigations Section is a component of the Field Operations Sub-Unit of the Materials and Tests Unit. It is responsible for performing research into new materials submitted for use in our highway system. This consists of identifying the need, preparing a work plan, initiating research, performing, and monitoring the research, analyzing the results and implementing any new or modified procedures or specifications as a result of the research. Additionally, this Section is responsible for initiating engineering investigations to determine the reasons for poorly performing materials or manufactured products which fail to perform as designed and develop specifications or procedures to revise or correct the problem. The Data Collection and Investigations Section is also responsible for coordinating the Materials and Tests Unit's involvement with contract research with FHWA, ITRE, Universities and other Units within the Department of Transportation.
Additionally, it is responsible for performing a variety of field inspections and testing; this includes, but not limited to, video pipe inspections, drilled shaft inspections, MIT scans, latex modified concrete pull-out testing, concrete and bituminous coring, and concrete maturity. Data Collection collects roughness (IRI) and rutting data on the secondary (SR) system, and skid friction data on the primary network (Interstate, US and NC routes). Also conducts training and QC/QA operations for the NCDOT Pavement Condition Survey.
