Asphalt Mix Design Task Force

For several years, VDOT and the industry have been working jointly to improve the performance of asphalt mixes.  In 2016, new mix design specifications were included in the maintenance paving schedules.  While a big step forward, VDOT is looking at other potential changes to improve mixes further.  On May 9, VDOT hosted an Asphalt Mix Design Task Force meeting at the VTRC Auditorium in Charlottesville.  The purpose of the meeting was to learn about events happening outside of Virginia.  Representatives from Reith-Riley and Michigan DOT discussed the MDOT approach to regressed air voids and higher AC contents.  Dr. Becky McDaniel of Purdue University reviewed the SUPERPAVE 5 research, Tim Aschenbrener of FHWA gave an overview of the balanced mixed design process, and Dr. Randy West updated the group on the mix crack testing work being done at NCAT.  From these presentations, the Task Force is evaluating what other changes to consider for VDOT specifications.  To learn more about the task force efforts, contact either co-chair Sungho Kim (sungho.kim@vdot.virginia.gov) or Ben Bowers (ben.bowers@vdot.virginia.gov).