Evaluation of superpave binder specification with performance of polymer-modified asphalt pavements

摘要

This paper discusses the evaluation of Superpave binder specification using pavements constructed with polymer-modified asphalt binders. Performance data collected from pavement test sections constructed in Sherman and Texarkana, Texas, were used in this evaluation. The Sherman pavement sections were overlays constructed in 1986 on US-75 whereas the Texarkana sections were all new construction on US 59/71 in late 1986 and early 1987. Dense-graded hot-mix asphalt (HMA), which contained 16-mm (5/8-inch) maximum size aggregate, was used. THe aggregate comprised crushed limestone and field sand. Traffic loading and performance data were collected for both sites. Superpave binder tests were conducted on original asphalt binders saved from the construction projects. Superpave Performance Grade (PG grade) were then established for these binders. Predicted performance from the Superpave PG grades was compared against the field performance. Results indicate that the Superpave rutting parameter predicts rutting resistance reasonably accurately. It was found that the accuracy of prediction of thermal cracking is improved if failure properties are also considered. Finally, it was shown that the Superpave fatigue parameter needs reevaluation.