Support for the Implementation of a Longitudinal Joint Density Specification for Hot-Mix Asphalt Concrete

Research project 0-1757 assessed the density of the longitudinal construction joint of many pavements in Texas and identified that a significant joint density problem existed, which justified the implementation of a joint density specification. This specification is now included as part of the Standard Specifications for Item 341 (Dense-Graded Hot-Mix Asphalt). To facilitate the implementation of the research and specification, the following objectives were included in this implementation project: (1) identify the most promising construction techniques aimed at achieving longitudinal joint density; (2) develop and conduct training seminars for the districts on construction of longitudinal joints and on the new Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) testing and specification requirements; (3) acquire non-nuclear density gauges; and (4) evaluate current longitudinal joint density criteria and the ability of contractors to meet the criteria. Project 0-1757, which provided the background supporting the need for a longitudinal joint density specification, reported densities near the unconfined edge averaging 6 to 7 lb per cu ft below the densities taken at the center of the mat. Since the implementation of a joint density specification, a significant improvement in the longitudinal joint density has been observed. Data from some of the projects presented herein indicate a joint density of only 1.0 pcf (or less) below the density of the mat interior.

• Record URL:
  • https://library.ctr.utexas.edu/hostedpdfs/tti/5-1757-01-1.pdf
• Record URL:
  • https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/86456
• Supplemental Notes:
  • Project Title: Support for the Implementation of Longitudinal Joint Density. Report Date: January 2006; Published: May 2006.
• Corporate Authors:

  Texas Transportation Institute

  Texas A&M University System, 3135 TAMU
  College Station, TX  United States  77843-3135

  Texas Department of Transportation

  Research and Technology Implementation Office, P.O. Box 5080
  Austin, TX  United States  78763-5080

  Federal Highway Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Estakhri, Cindy K
• Publication Date: 2006-5

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Digital/other
• Edition: Technical Report
• Features: Tables;
• Pagination: 20p

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Contractors; Density; Hot mix asphalt; Implementation; Longitudinal joints; Road construction; Training
• Uncontrolled Terms: Construction specifications; Non-nuclear density gages
• Geographic Terms: Texas
• Subject Areas: Construction; Education and Training; Highways; Research; I52: Construction of Pavements and Surfacings;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01025856
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: FHWA/TX-06/5-1757-01-1, Report 5-1757-01-1
• Contract Numbers: Project 5-1757-01-1
• Files: NTL, TRIS, USDOT, STATEDOT
• Created Date: Jun 26 2006 4:07PM