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MPC
Research Projects (2000-01)

Identifying Number

MPC-198

Project Title

Predicting the Fluctuations in Temperatures of Asphalt Pavements

University

University of Wyoming

Project Investigator

Dr. C. Yavuzturk and Dr. K. Ksaibati
University of Wyoming
(307)766-6142 and (307)766-6230
Fax: (307)766-2221
Khaled@uwyo.edu

External Project Contact

George Huntington
Wyoming Department of Transportation
(307)777-4476

Project Objective

The main objective of this research is to conduct a study for the development of methods/procedures to predict temperature fluctuations at various depths of asphalt pavements. Current methods do not fully account for all factors affecting temperature variations at various pavement depths.

Project Abstract

Fluctuation in temperatures significantly affects pavement stability and the selection of asphalt-grading to be used in pavements. Ability to predict the asphalt pavement temperature at different depths based on ambient air temperatures will greatly help pavement engineers in performing back-calculations of pavement modulus values. In addition, it will help engineers in selecting the asphalt grade to be used in various pavement lifts. The top pavement layer is normally exposed to greater temperature fluctuations than the layers below it. Knowledge of the temperature distribution of asphalt slabs will allow for a more sophisticated specification of asphalt for lower lifts (through specification of less expensive asphalt binders in lower lifts) and thus provide an economical solution to rising pavement construction costs. The study will also examine the variability of predicted pavement temperatures on various pavement materials such as dense and open-graded asphalt mixes.

Task Descriptions

The Tasks for FY 2000-2001. The following tasks will be performed:

  • Task 1 – Conduct literature review. (August 2000)
  • Task 2 – Develop heat transfer model to predict pavement temperature. (October 2000)
  • Task 3 – Conduct theoretical validation of the heat transfer model. (February 2001)
  • Task 4 – Develop a protocol to demonstrate the use of the model in selecting asphalt binders. (April 2001)
  • Task 5 – Develop a protocol to demonstrate the use of the model in back-calculations of pavement modulus values. (May 2001)
  • Task 6 – Submit a final report. (June 2001)
  • Task 7 – Submit a technical paper to the Transportation Research Board meeting. (August 2001)

Milestones, Dates

  • Starting Date: July 1, 2000
  • Project Milestones:
    • Perform an in-depth literature review on models and/or procedures used to determine/predict pavement temperatures.
    • Develop a heat transfer model that is capable of predicting pavement temperature as a function of pavement depth. Recast this in a practical software application.
    • Develop experimental studies for field validation of the heat transfer model.
    • Prepare a final report that contains a practical pavement temperature prediction protocol.
  • Ending Date: July 1, 2001

Yearly and Total Budget

Federal: $31,605
Matching: $35,921

Student Involvement

One undergraduate student

Relationship to Other Research Projects

Other research studies did not consider heat transfer theories in the analysis.

Technology Transfer Activities

Transportation Departments in Region 8.

Potential Benefits of the Project

This research will be performed in close coordination with the Wyoming DOT. The results of this research are expected to provide pavement engineers with more accurate information on the temperature fluctuations. Such information will be very beneficial in establishing protocols for back-calculations of pavement modulus values. In addition, the results will help engineers select more cost-effective asphalt materials (PG binders) for various pavement lifts. The results of this study are expected to have immediate impact on the development of cost-effective design practices.

TRB Keywords

Pavement temperatures, asphalt binder selection

NDSU Dept 2880P.O. Box 6050Fargo, ND 58108-6050
(701)231-7767ndsu.ugpti@ndsu.edu