OPEN-GRADE "POPCORN" ASPHALT MIX USED TO ALLEVIATE SKID POTENTIAL ON ROUTE 55

This article describes the resurfacing of a hazardous pavement condition on the five-mile section of Route 55 in Cumberland County, New Jersey. This section was the scene of a series of skidding accidents, including one fatality, over a number of years. A decision was made to use the permanent overlay, consisting of an open-grade asphalt mix which is designed to provide adequate surface drainage and eliminate hydroplaning. The mix is taken from the plant at a temperature of between 250 and 270 degrees, and the ambient temperature was designated at 60 degrees. Pavement preparations include sweeping with an M.B. broom towed behind a pickup. Rolling was kept to a minimum to preserve the open-grade character. Quality control is considered extremely important because the gradation of the stone controls the mix. The high stone content and the high instance of air voids facilitate surface drainage. The complete section of Route 55 will be subjected to close scrutiny by DOT personnel throughout the year to observe the effect of heat and cold on the open-grade mix.

• Corporate Authors:

  Reports Corporation

  1 Bond Street
  Chatham New Jersey, 07928,   United States 
• Publication Date: 1977-3-14

Media Info

• Features: Photos;
• Pagination: p. 28-29
• Serial:
  • Constructioneer
  • Publisher: Reports Corporation

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Aggregate gradation; Air voids; Hydroplaning; Mix design; Open graded aggregates; Quality control; Skid resistance; Stone; Surface drainage; Temperature
• Old TRIS Terms: Air voids content; Gradation
• Subject Areas: Construction; Geotechnology; Highways; Materials;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00163642
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jan 13 1978 12:00AM