SWUTC Research Project Description

Title of Project:  Evaluation of Warm Mix Asphalt New Technology

Project Number: 0-5597

Principal Investigator:
Joe Button
(979) 845-9965
P.I. Affiliation:  Texas A&M University

Project Monitor:
Magdy Mikhail
Texas Department of Transportation
(512) 463-8585

Project Status:  Active

Date Started:  9/1/06

Estimation Completion Date:  8/31/08

Estimated Cost - Current Fiscal:  $113,103

Estimated Cost - Total Planned:  $270,036

Project Summary:
Project Abstract:
The asphalt paving industry is studying warm mix asphalt (WMA) technology as a method for reducing asphalt mixture placement temperature which could bring several cost, environmental, and performance benefits. This new technology presents several challenges to the current mixture design and construction process. The two goals of this project are to develop a mixture design and analysis method for WMA and to produce construction specifications for these mixtures to ensure adequate performance.

Researchers will first conduct a worldwide literature search and survey on WMA mixture design, construction, and performance. Laboratory characterization and field demonstration/evaluation experiments will then be designed and completed to assist in the development of a mixture design process and draft construction specifications. Based on analysis and evaluation of the test results and field evaluations, this project will produce a summary report and two research reports that document the information search, recommended mixture design and analysis method, and construction specifications.

Project Objectives:
To develop and recommend a mix design and analysis method for WMA and guidelines for construction.

Task Descriptions:
Task 1:  Meet with TxDOT Project Personnel

Task 2:  Conduct Information Search

Task 3:  Develop Laboratory Experiment Design

Task 4:  Conduct Laboratory Testing Plan

Task 5:  Field Demonstration Projects

Task 6:  Field Performance Evaluation

Task 7:  Develop WMA Mixture Design and Analysis Method

Task 8:  Develop Construction Specifications

Task 9:  Meet with TxDOT Project Personnel

Task 10:  Document Project Findings and Recommendations

Index Terms:
Asphalt Pavements, Asphalt Mixtures, Temperature, Cost Effectiveness, Environmental Impacts, Performance Evaluations, Technological Innovations, Mix Design, Research Projects