Full course description
As a result of a considerable, nation-wide research effort to improve Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) pavement performance, a Superior Performing Asphalt Pavement (Superpave) system was developed. A major component of the Superpave ideology was to improve asphalt binder performance so that both resistance to rutting during hot temperatures as well as resistance to cracking in cold temperatures would be improved. Binder tests were also elevated beyond the empirical tests used in the past to more appropriate performance-based tests. Climate data from weather stations across the continent were used to determine needed binder performance grades that would perform well under a wide range of temperature conditions. Pavements throughout the nation were selected and evaluated to develop a Long-Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) database that could be used by owner/agencies to determine the most appropriate binder for specific geographical locations. This training session will review previous binder tests, and explain the basis for the Superpave binder performance grading system. An exam is offered that will test the participant’s knowledge of key elements in regard to binder testing procedures and specifications.