TexSys

Abstract: The Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) was a highly focused, ambitious research effort that targeted four specific areas for intense study over the time frame from 1987 to 1993. Asphalt was one of the four study areas. This report describes the Superpave system, the final product of the asphalt research program; and the various parts that comprise its operational characteristics. In all, the final report of the SHRP Asphalt Research Program consists of five parts, the contents of which are briefly described in this report. Reference is made within this report to specific details within the other four parts for readers who want a more detailed description of the methodology, test methods, and theory behind Superpave.

Abstract: This synthesis documents the results of a comprehensive review of worldwide information dealing with the following issues as related to warm-mix asphalt (WMA) technology: (1) current state of the art/practice of WMA, (2) benefits and costs of WMA technology, (3) plant modifications to accommodate certain WMA processes, (4) mixture design and analysis, (5) pavement structural design, (6) durability and performance, (7) performance-related testing, (8) quality control, (9) specifications, and (10) construction guidelines. A summary of findings and recommendations is provided. Also included in this synthesis is a complete documentation of the first warm-mix asphalt field trial conducted by the Texas Department of Transportation.

Abstract: This report presents a mix design method and construction guidelines for stone matrix asphalt (SMA) in the form of recommended American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) standard specifications and practices. It will be of particular interest to materials engineers in the state highway agencies as well as agency and contractor personnel responsible for design and construction of hot mix asphalt (HMA) paving projects. The report also contains a summary of research results that support the development of the method and guidelines, including experimental data obtained during SMA pavement construction to validate the laboratory findings. SMA is defined as an HMA prepared with gap-graded aggregate in order to maximize the asphalt binder content and coarse aggregate fraction.

Abstract: This manual represents the first formal training document that embodies the complete series of SUPERPAVE asphalt binder test equipment and procedures. These tests and procedures represent the results of the Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) 5-year research effort to investigate and improve asphalt cement technology. This manual was developed under the Federal Highway Administration's National Asphalt Training Center. Students attending the center utilize this manual to obtain a better understanding of the underlying theory behind asphalt cement testing, as well as how to perform each of the new procedures.