One of the main objectives of SHRP has been the developmentof more reliable testing methods for assessing the field performanceof asphalt pavements. The methods and equipment developed by SHRPindirectly evalute field performance and mechanical propertiesby the laboratory testing of samples. A concentrated researcheffort was directed to extending the SHRP methodology by developinga portable, in-situ shear strength test device. This device wasdesigned and fabricated at Carleton University, and is known asthe Carleton In-Situ Shear Strength Test device (CISSST).

This paper presents a description of the development and detailsof the device, its use in the field and the results of a varietyof field situations. The results show the profound effect of roadgeometry (in-situ shear strength of up to 60% higher on a straightline as compared to curved sections), the effect of taking coresto the laboratory for testing (in-situ shear strengths can rangeup to 300% higher), and the effect of traffic on the in-situ shearstrength.