Laboratory evaluation of high polymer plant-produced mixtures

Two high polymer mixtures (HPM) were placed at the 2009 National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) Test Track as a field trial. These mixtures featured 7.5% polymer in contrast to the more typical 2–3% polymer contents. During construction, each mixture (one surface and one base mixture) was sampled for evaluation using laboratory performance tests. The results of the dynamic modulus test, asphalt pavement analyzer, flow number, bending beam fatigue, indirect tension creep compliance and strength test, energy ratio, and moisture susceptibility tests were compared with the results from comparable control mixtures placed in the same round of testing. The laboratory test results suggest HPM mixtures can be placed to develop more efficient (i.e., thinner) pavement cross-sections due to their enhanced fatigue and rutting resistance.