Automation of Pavement Material Testing Laboratory Process: Review
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Pavement Materials Testing Laboratories (PMTLs) play a critical role in ensuring that pavement materials meet the required specifications to sustain traffic loads and achieve design standards. This study investigates the potential for transforming PMTL operations through the adoption of automation technologies, with a particular focus on developing-country contexts such as Papua New Guinea (PNG). A systematic review of the literature published up to 2025 was conducted using targeted keyword-search strategies to identify relevant advances in laboratory automation across multiple sectors. The review highlights significant progress driven by the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS). However, findings indicate that PMTLs remain largely dependent on manual processes, limiting efficiency, traceability, and data reliability. To complement the literature review, a case study was undertaken using structured questionnaires distributed to laboratory personnel across six PMTLs and to representatives from seven major road construction companies in PNG. The responses indicate strong support for the adoption of automation to improve laboratory operations. The study identifies a critical research gap in the absence of an integrated, end-to-end automated system capable of linking test requests, sample management, personnel allocation, and equipment utilisation within a unified PMTL framework. While the benefits of automation are evident, challenges related to sustainability, including funding constraints and limited resource capacity, remain significant barriers to implementation. This research contributes to the development of a conceptual foundation for PMTL automation, highlighting the need for scalable, context-specific solutions to enhance quality assurance and operational performance.
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