Building better roads: The science behind Mount Stewart’s Testing Lab
Does it pass the test? That’s the question being asked every day at the Transportation Materials Testing Lab in Mount Stewart.
Before a new stretch of pavement is laid, samples of soil, stone, asphalt, and concrete must make the grade at the lab. The work done here plays a behind-the-scenes role in keeping PEI’s roads and bridges safe, smooth, and able to stand up to Island weather and traffic.
“The lab supports the provincial road system by testing construction materials before, during, and after construction,” explains Tim Cheverie, materials lab manager. “Some of that work happens out in the field, and some happens inside the lab, but all of it is focused on making sure materials meet the standards needed for long-lasting roads.”
Across the province, field technicians can be found at aggregate pits, contractor yards, asphalt plants, and active construction sites. They collect samples, inspect operations, and monitor conditions such as frost depth and road stability.
They also test concrete as it’s being placed and carry out subsurface investigations to better understand soil conditions before design work even begins.
Back at the lab, materials are put through a series of tests to check their size, strength, and durability, as well as how well they hold up through freeze-thaw cycles.
“That’s especially important on PEI, where frequent temperature swings can quickly take a toll on poor-quality materials,” Cheverie says. “The lab also designs asphalt mixes, carefully selecting the right blend of aggregates and asphalt binder to perform in local conditions.”
Testing asphalt before it’s placed helps ensure pavements last longer. It confirms the mix can handle traffic loads, stay firm in summer heat, and remain flexible during cold winter months. The lab also checks how well the asphalt binder sticks to the aggregates.
Because PEI doesn’t have local rock suitable for paving, all materials are imported, and chemical additives are used to improve bonding.
Once asphalt production begins, quality control continues. Samples are taken during mixing and tested for air voids, binder content, and aggregate proportions. Results are often ready within hours, allowing adjustments to be made quickly at the plant.
After paving, core samples are taken to confirm proper compaction, and high-speed equipment measures pavement smoothness to assess ride quality.
“If something doesn’t meet the mark, changes are made,” Cheverie explains. “Contractors may need to adjust their mix or change material sources, and if compaction or smoothness targets aren’t met, penalties, or even rejection, can apply.”
All of this work has a direct impact on safety for Islanders. Early testing helps prevent cracking, potholes, and other pavement failures that can become driving hazards. Smoother roads also provide a more comfortable ride and tend to hold up better over time.
Designing roads on PEI comes with unique challenges, including the need to import all paving materials and manage increasing traffic volumes.
As roads and intersections face greater demands, the Mount Stewart Testing Lab continues to support the use of stronger, more durable materials that helps ensure Island roads perform well for years to come.