Constructing High Performance Asphalt Pavements by Improving in Place Pavement Density

US Transportation Collection2021PDFTech ReportKumar, VikasColeri, ErdemObaid, Ihsan AliOregon State University. School of Civil and Construction EngineeringOregon. Dept. of Transportation. Research SectionUnited States. Department of Transportation. Federal Highway AdministrationOregon. Dept. of Transportation. Research SectionOregonUnited StatesCompactionDensityLife cycle analysisPavement performanceRoad constructionWarm mix paving mixturesCompactibilityAsphaltNuclear density gagesCompactive effortIntelligent compactionAsphalt densityLife-cycle assessmentWarm-mixLife-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)FHWA-OR-RD-22-04SPR 826Final Research ReportIncreasing the density of asphalt concrete materials is expected to result in significant economic and environmental benefits by increasing asphalt mix strength and reducing cracking and rutting. In addition, reduced air-void content is expected to reduce permeability and moisture-induced pavement damage. Reduced permeability is also expected to reduce asphalt mix aging in the field and mitigate top-down cracking, which is currently the most critical distress type in Oregon. Improved cracking performance is expected to result in reduced life cycle costs, increased pavement condition ratings, and reduced roughness for the Oregon roadway network. This research study provided information and guidelines for ODOT to implement in asphalt mixture design to achieve high density and better compactibility during construction. Current Contractor Mix Design guidelines (suggested limits for filler contents, gyration levels, etc.) are expected to be modified based on the findings of this research study. Pilot sections with high densities (95-96%) were suggested to be constructed by using the asphalt mixes designed by following the findings of this research study. Long-term performance of pilot sections should be monitored by automated pavement condition surveys (performed every two years by ODOT) to further evaluate the impact of high density on rutting and cracking resistance. Using the results of this study, cost and performance benefits of using high-density mixes were quantified by life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA). Environmental impact of using warm-mix asphalt and increased recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) content strategies on compactibility and cracking resistance was also quantified and evaluated by using pavement life-cycle assessment (LCA).127