Evaluation of Winter Pothole Patching Methods.

摘要

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the performance and cost-effectiveness of the tow-behind combination infrared asphalt heater/reclaimer patching method and compare it to the throw and roll and spray injection methods. To achieve this objective a national survey was first conducted to document the experience of the infrared asphalt heater/reclaimer users in different states. In addition, a comprehensive testing program, that included installing over 60 patches using the three considered methods as well as monitoring the performance and survivability of those patches, was performed. The results of the survey and subsequent phone interviews indicated that the infrared asphalt heater/reclaimer equipment can significantly improve the performance and longevity of pothole patches and can be cost-effective when proper installation procedures are followed. The results of testing program indicated that the infrared method had much lower productivity than the other two methods. In addition, the throw and roll had better productivity than the spray injection method. The properties and storage procedure of the asphalt mixture used in the infrared method were found to affect the performance of the installed patches. Improper storage of the infrared heater/reclaimer equipment also was found to cause problems in igniting the infrared heater, which significantly increased the patching duration.