Asphalt Pavement Rehabilitation Treatment: Analysis of 20 Years of Performance (05-2081)**
Dennis A. Morian, Quality Engineering Solutions, Inc.
Yanqing Zhao, Quality Engineering Solutions, Inc.
Janice L. Arellano, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
Donald E. Hall, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation

The Pennsylvania DOT Engineering District in northwestern Pennsylvania experienced very poor pavement conditions in the early 1980’s. Several methods of pavement rehabilitation of asphalt-surfaced highways were utilized to improve pavement performance, and management of pavement investment. This paper analyzes the performance of a number of these sections after twenty-one years. Results from the analysis show that relative to conventional mill and level with overlay, the appropriate application of stress absorbing membrane interlayers (SAMI) and cold in-place recycling has been very effective in both performance and relative cost effectiveness. The analysis also shows that for a subsequent generation of rehabilitation, the benefit of these treatments continues to be evident. As a result of this study, it is recommended that highway owners seriously evaluate other rehabilitation treatments than conventional mill and level with overlay. The performance of SAMI and cold recycled sections in this instance has more than justified the additional expense of the construction. Key words: pavement rehabilitation, cold recycling, stress absorbing membrane interlayer