This innovation applies tribological principles to develop a method for determining asphalt mixture mixing and compaction temperatures better than currently used methods. The method is based on asphalt binder lubricating properties and critical aggregate properties and involves developing a new tribological test to measure asphalt lubrication ability in the context of the simulated aggregate properties along with an innovative method to more appropriately determine mixture mixing and compaction temperatures with desired aggregate coating and mixture workability based on advanced statistical analysis methods. The results from this research are expected to significantly lower the asphalt mixture mixing temperature and compaction effort, reducing greenhouse gas emission, and saving energy. The results can also significantly improve the aggregates' packing, mixture density and binder film distribution and therefore, mixture mechanical performance.

Status

Research will begin in October 2023.