Developing acceptance criteria for asphalt with low air voids: Year 1 2017/18

In 2015, the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) aligned its asphalt specification more closely with New South Wales Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) specification R116 Heavy Duty Dense Graded Asphalt. Since this change, there has been a significant increase in the number of 20 mm dense graded asphalt lots that do not comply with specification requirements for in-situ air voids. The performance implications of these non-conformances are not well understood for TMR registered mixes and has led to contractual disputes on several projects since its implementation. The investigation of Developing Acceptance Criteria for Asphalt with Low In-situ or Production Air Voids is a multiyear effort to allow for the evaluation of the performance implications of non-conforming air voids during the production and placements of asphalt mixes. A three-year study has been planned with different objectives set for each year. In the first year of the study, the aimwas to review literature regarding the current practice of both national and international road agencies. Scope for laboratory investigation will be developed based upon findings of the literature review. The second year of the study will focus on undertaking laboratory testing on typical dense graded asphalt (DGA) mixes used by TMR, with varying binder and air void contentss. The TMR specifications for asphalt will be updated based upon the results of these experiments and a study of current practice. The envisaged objective of the final year of the study will be to update current TMR specifications to include a reduced payment regime for low air voids and undertake a knowledge transfer of project outcomes to both TMR and industry personnel.

• Record URL:
  https://www.nacoe.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/P70-17-18-Low-Air-Voids-Final-Report-FINAL-for-publication.pdf
• Corporate Authors:

  National Asset Centre of Excellence (NACOE)

  Brisbane, Queensland   
• Authors:
  • van Aswegen, E
  • Latter, L
  • Ahmadinia, E
  • Valenzuela, W
• Publication Date: 2018-9

Media Info

• Pagination: 44p

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Air entrained concrete; Bituminous pavements; Compliance; Contractors; Design standards; Fatigue (Mechanics); Mix design; Porosity; Specifications
• Geographic Terms: Queensland
• ATRI Terms: Air entrained concrete; Asphalt; Compliance; Contractor; Design standard; Material fatigue; Mix design; Porosity; Specifications

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01781214
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: ARRB Group Limited
• Report/Paper Numbers: P70
• Files: ATRI
• Created Date: Sep 2 2021 2:25PM