RELATIONSHIP OF SUPERPAVE GYRATORY COMPACTION PROPERTIES TO HMA RUTTING BEHAVIOR

Abstract

This report presents the findings of a research project to examine whether there is a relationship between any property of hot mix asphalt (HMA) measurable with the Superpave gyratory compactor and the rutting behavior of HMA pavements in service. Its main finding is that the parameter N-SRmax, the number of gyrations at maximum stress ratio, may be used within certain limits to identify mix designs likely to show gross instability under the shear stresses produced by traffic in HMA pavements. The report will be of particular interest to materials engineers in state highway agencies, as well as to materials suppliers and paving contractor personnel responsible for HMA design and quality control.