Warm-Mix Asphalt Study: Test Track Construction and First-Level Analysis of Phase 3a HVS and Laboratory Testing (Rubberized Asphalt, Mix Design #1)

This is one of two reports describing the third phase of a warm-mix asphalt study that compares the performance of two rubberized asphalt control mixes with that of seven mixes produced with warm-mix technologies. The control mixes were produced and compacted at conventional hot-mix asphalt temperatures (>300 F [150°C]), while the warm-mixes were produced and compacted at temperatures between 36°F (20°C) and 60°F (35°C) lower than the controls. The mixes, test track, Heavy Vehicle Simulator (HVS) and laboratory testing are discussed. Results indicate that use of the warm-mix technologies did not significantly influence performance when compared to control specimens. However, the mixes produced with chemical surfactant technologies did appear to be influenced in part by the lower mix production and construction temperatures, which would have resulted in less oxidation of the binder and consequent lower stiffness of the mix. Rutting performance, fatigue and moisture sensitivity under accelerated load testing did not appear to be affected. The warm mix produced using water injection technology appeared to have lower moisture resistance but still met Caltrans-specified performance requirements in most instances. Smoke and odors are significantly reduced on warm mixes compared to hot mixes, while workability is considerably better on warm mixes compared to hot mixes. No results suggest that warm-mix technologies should not be used in rubberized asphalt in California