Control of Volumetric Properties of Hot-Mix Asphalt by Field Management

Abstract

Significant differences in the volumetric properties of laboratory-designed and plant-produced hot-mix asphalt (HMA) generally exist as demonstrated by FHWA Demonstration Project No. 74. The volumetric properties include voids in the mineral aggregate (VMA) and voids in the total mix (VTM). Guidelines for HMA contractors are needed to reconcile these differences and maintain control of volumetric properties during HMA production. The HMA mix design and field production test data (such as asphalt content, gradation, and volumetric properties) from 24 FHWA demonstration projects were entered into a data base and statistically analyzed. The objective was to identify and, if possible, quantify the independent variables (such as asphalt content and the percentages of material passing the No. 200 and other sieves) that significantly affect dependent variables VMA and VTM. The statistical analysis methods consisted of correlation analysis, stepwise multiple-variable analysis, and linear-regression analysis. On the basis of preceding work, guidelines have been developed for HMA contractors to reconcile the differences between the volumetric properties of the job mix formula and the produced HMA mix.