Title: Using APT and Laboratory Testing to Evaluate the Performance of High Modulus Asphalt Concrete for Base Courses in Brazil
Abstract: High modulus asphalt concrete (HMAC) is a well-known solution for high volume roads, especially in France, presenting better results in terms of rutting and fatigue cracking than conventional mixtures. The use of HMAC allows reducing of asphalt layers, within the framework of rational road design. This work presents the results of a study that searched for a better understanding of the behavior and performance of HMAC by submitting a test section to accelerated tests in full-scale conditions, using a linear traffic simulator. Two trial sections with HMAM course were built to verify the construction features and to monitor the traffic effect in the pavement. In order to follow pavement distresses evolutions, deflections and rut depths were measured and cracks were mapped. 200,000 load cycles were applied with axle loads of 100 kN and 120kN. The rut depth at the end of testing totaled 6 mm, but fatigue cracking was not observed on the pavement surfaces. The mixture was prepared with hard bitumen modified by asphaltite. To evaluate the laboratory mix performance, Marshall Methodologywas used to determine asphalt binder content. Besides tensile strength, resilient modulus, fatigue (controlled stress mode), stripping (Modified Lottman) and permanent deformation characteristics were evaluated. The results show that HMAC presents excellent resilient behavior in addition to high tensile strength, that make this kind of asphalt mixture most suitable for pavements subjected to very heavy traffic.
Publication Year: 2008
Publication Date: 2008-01-01
Language: en
Type: article
Access and Citation
Cited By Count: 13
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