WTI

Synthesis of Warm Mix Asphalt Paving Strategies for use in Montana Highway Construction

Primary Investigator Contact Information

External Project Contact(s)

Report(s)

There are no reports associated with this project.

Project Objective

The objective of this research project is to synthesize the latest research on warm mix asphalt paving technologies and provide the Montana Department of Transportation with implementation recommendations.

Project Abstract

Use of Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) as an alternative to conventional Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) is gaining national momentum. WMA uses recent technological advances that reduce the temperature needed to produce and compact asphalt for use on roadways. It offers the potential to reduce construction costs by lowering energy use, improving quality and efficiency of construction, and improving environmental stewardship through decreased air emissions. These benefits make WMA technologies appealing to highway agencies and the asphalt paving industry given increased energy costs, reduced highway construction and maintenance budgets, and tighter environmental regulations. Despite these promising benefits, numerous experimental studies and construction projects using WMA have demonstrated varying levels of performance. Several problems have been identified related to increased and premature rutting of surface asphalt concrete courses, moisture damage, and various types of pavement distress. MDT has expressed an interest in examining WMA technologies for use in Montana. Through this project, WTI researchers will examine recent national and international research in Europe to evaluate the applicability of WMA technologies for Montana roadway conditions, and to develop a set of implementation recommendations.

Task Descriptions

1. Project Management
   1. The Principal Investigator will be responsible for project management, including communication with the sponsor and technical panel, and preparation of deliverables.
2. Literature Review
   1. WTI researchers will review research from completed and ongoing projects using warm mix asphalt technologies, including a recent FHWA-sponsored European Scan project, two NCHRP projects, and experimental deployments in western states.
3. Prepare Synthesis
   1. WTI will prepare a synthesis of material relevant to the use of WMA technologies and strategies in Montana, including specific implementation recommendations.
4. Technical Panel Review
   1. The research team will coordinate a meeting with the technical panel to solicit feedback on the draft report.
5. Final Report
   1. WTI will incorporate input and recommendations of the technical panel, and prepare a final report for submission to MDT.

Milestones, Dates, Schedule

Student Involvement

False

Relationship to Other Research Projects

False

Technology Transfer Activities

True

TRB Keywords

Warm mix asphalt, asphalt pavements, pavement construction

Partners

Montana Department of Transportation