Evaluating the Impact of Volumetric Properties and Reheating on the Balanced Mix Design Test Results

About the project:

In 2017, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) initiated the first steps towards the implementation of the balanced mix design (BMD) concept for its dense-graded surface asphalt mixtures with A and D designations. Several field trials using BMD mixtures have been constructed since 2019 across the state, and data analysis revealed significant differences in BMD test results between batches of the same mix, or between different entities (i.e., producer, district, and VTRC). These differences highlight the importance of quantifying factors such as volumetrics and reheating, which have a significant impact on BMD test results. The goal of this research project is to identify the significant volumetric and reheating factors that affect BMD test results and quantify their impact. This objective will be achieved by analyzing historical performance data from producers, districts, and VTRC, and by conducting additional laboratory testing to isolate the reheating effect in BMD test results. 

Project Team

Principal Investigators

Co-Principal Investigators