UTC 2022 Funding - Cycle 2 Research Projects

Project Number: CY2-OSU-06
Project Title: Performance-Based Design of Permeable Friction Courses Using Warm Mix Asphalt for Enhanced Safety and Durability
Performing Institution: Oklahoma State University
Principal Investigator: Mohamed Elkashef
Proposed Start and End Date: 10/01/2024 to 09/30/2025
Project Description: Permeable friction courses (PFC) offer several performance and environmental benefits. The open-graded structure of PFC provides a path for water to permeate through the pavement hence reducing the risk of flooding, splash and spray, and hydroplaning. The open-graded friction course also results in improved pavement friction, especially during wet weather conditions. It was also reported that the air void structure in the PFC results in noise reduction and lessens the effect of the urban heat island phenomenon.

PFC was selected by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) as part of the Every Day Counts (EDC) initiative. The EDC program promotes proven technologies which are being underutilized. PFC can exhibit failure due to raveling, moisture damage, cracking, and rutting. Many state agencies including Oklahoma have strict requirements on material selection and aggregate gradation of PFC mixes, however, there is not much focus on performance measures, permeability, and durability. The effect of mix type and composition on the friction has also not been fully investigated. Some states have reported using Warm Mix Additives (WMA) to improve raveling resistance. Other studies were conducted in Louisiana and Michigan using WMA with PFC and it was shown that using WMA can improve the raveling and rutting resistance.

The objective of this study is to explore the use of different performance-related testing to characterize the performance and permeability of PFC mixes using fibers and WMA as stabilizing agents, and to assess the impact of mix type and composition on the friction characteristics of the pavement surface. Based on the findings of this study, recommendations will be given regarding using WMA as a stabilizing agent for PFC mixes. The recommendations would also include suggested changes to current specifications. These changes could include relaxing existing criteria related to volumetrics and using performance-related testing during mix design.
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