SPR 2013 Prime KTC: Asphalt Pavement Durability

This research will consider the changes recently made in the asphalt mix design process to evaluate the effectiveness of the changes. It is supposed that these changes would produce a more durable pavement. As methods and materials evolve over time, the primary focus of asphalt mix design remains unchanged; to design a mix that optimizes performance while minimizing cost. In 2009 the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet made changes to its asphalt mix design process. This change allowed for more asphalt binder to be included in the mix. While this change did increase the cost of materials used, it is believed that the change also improved long-term performance of the asphalt pavements designed with this new modification. The Kentucky Transportation Center has been asked to evaluate this mix design change, as well as any other changes in asphalt mix design that could potentially increase asphalt durability. Asphalt durability has long been a concern in Kentucky, and we are always striving to make improvements to the way asphalt pavements are designed and constructed. One such effort occurred a few years ago when the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet made changes to the asphalt mix design method. These changes were intended to increase density and therefore increase long-term pavement performance. The goal of this research is to evaluate the changes that were recently made in the mix design process, and determine (1.) if these changes are leading to more durable pavements, and (2.) if additional modifications in the design process would be appropriate. This research will consider the changes recently made in the asphalt mix design process to evaluate the effectiveness of the changes. It is supposed that these changes would produce a more durable pavement.