United States Department of Transportation
i
Balanced Mixture Design Implementation Support
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2021-03-01
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[PDF-1.80 MB]
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Edition:Final Report June 2019-March 2021
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Abstract:This project sought to evaluate performance-based methodologies for asphalt mix design and develop a preliminary balanced mix design (BMD) specification for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) projects. The work plan included conducting a literature review, interviewing Wisconsin mix designers, conducting a BMD workshop, benchmarking existing WisDOT mix designs, modifying selected mix designs for improved performance, and conducting cost analysis of mix design modifications. Mixture performance tests included the Hamburg Wheel Tracking Test (HWTT) to evaluate mixture rutting and moisture resistance, the Indirect Tensile Asphalt Cracking Test (IDEAL-CT) for the evaluation of intermediate-temperature cracking resistance, and the Disc-shaped Compact Tension (DCT) test for the evaluation of low-temperature cracking resistance. A database of mixture performance test results was developed in the benchmarking experiment and preliminary performance test criteria were suggested for WisDOT mixes. The impacts of common mix design variables on the mixture performance test results were evaluated and several successful mix design modification strategies were identified. A simple cost analysis of the mix design modifications to improve five poor-performing mixes indicates that the materials cost could increase by approximately 8 to 22% to meet the proposed performance test criteria. Asphalt contractors are suggested to explore different mix design modification strategies so that they can determine the most cost-effective options for their materials. Finally, suggested modifications to the WisDOT standard specification for the initial implementation of BMD for MT, HT, and SMA mixes are provided.
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