Hot-Mix Asphalt Segregation: Measurement and Effects

Abstract

Segregation of hot-mix asphalt (HMA) has been associated with poor pavement performance. As a result, a nondestructive test method that could quickly identify segregation and be easily included in field testing would be useful to agencies. A study was conducted of four HMA mixtures with five levels of segregation. All levels of segregation for each mix were characterized by gradation, asphalt content, density, and air voids. The segregated mixes were tested with an air permeameter and a nuclear moisture/density gauge. In addition, thermal imaging equipment was field-tested on an existing pavement, at a hot-mix asphalt plant, and at a paving project to determine its overall effectiveness in detecting segregation. Preliminary wheel-tracking tests with the PURWheel tracking device were used to evaluate segregated mixture performance.