Advancing Asphalt Through Research
Asphalt Institute’s research team leads the industry in applied and collaborative studies that shape the future of asphalt materials, design, and performance. Our scientists and engineers develop solutions to real-world challenges, from product evaluation and material characterization to forensic investigations and advanced rheological analysis.
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Whether you’re developing new materials, validating performance, or addressing field challenges, our laboratory is ready to help. Connect with our research staff to discuss your project goals and learn how Asphalt Institute can support your success.
A Legacy of Impactful Research
Explore highlights from our decades of laboratory and field research that continue to define standards and advance the science of asphalt.
SHRP Project A-001: Research and development of the Superpave Gyratory Compactor and the Superpave mix design system
Development of a comprehensive framework for asphalt mix design to enhance performance against cracking and rutting in asphalt pavements
The Superpave mix design system has been the standard for mix design since the completion of the Strategic Highway Research Program in the early 1990s. By integrating performance-based metrics for materials with traffic-related compaction through the Superpave Gyratory Compactor, the Superpave mix design system reshaped asphalt science for the betterment of asphalt performance.
NCHRP 9-7: Field Procedures and Equipment to Implement SHRP Asphalt Specifications
Development of comprehensive QC/QA procedures to ensure successful field implementation of the SHRP program
Findings and recommendations from NCHRP 9-7 provided tools for agencies relating to implementation of the Superpave system, verification of mixture quality at job sites, and decreasing opportunities for field variability.
NCHRP 9-10: Characterization of Modified Asphalt Binders in Superpave Mix Design
Evaluate the inclusion of modified asphalt binders into the Superpave Mix Design framework
During a period of increasing use of modified asphalt binders, findings from NCHRP 9-10 provided insight for navigating the inclusion of complex materials into the Superpave system.
NCHRP 9-12: Incorporation of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement in the Superpave System
Development of systematic guidelines for the use of RAP in mix design
From sampling to material characterization and quality control, the recommendations of NCHRP 9-12 provided mix designers a framework for the practice of incorporating RAP into asphalt mixtures.
NCHRP 9-9: Refinement of the Superpave Gyratory Compaction Procedure
Investigation of refinements to Superpave Gyratory Compactor for improved mix design
The findings of NCHRP 9-9 helped to improve asphalt mixture field density and optimize asphalt binder content through the reduction of gyratory compaction levels.
AAPTP 06-01: A Laboratory and Field Investigation to Develop Test Procedures for Predicting Non-Load Associated Cracking of Airfield HMA Pavements
Diagnosis of the mechanics related to block cracking, transverse cracking surface raveling in asphalt pavements
Building on the work of AAPTP 05-07, this project identified several key tests and metrics for use in the prediction of non-load associated cracking. For asphalt binders this included the ΔTc parameter from Bending Beam Rheometer Testing, while for mixtures it included the Thermal Stress Restrained Specimen Test and Indirect Tension Test, among others.
AIF 22-03: Understanding and Improving the Durability of Asphalt Shingles – Phase 1
Investigation into the relationship between asphalt binder rheology and the impact resistance of asphalt shingles
Findings from the initial phase of this study found relationships between rheological measurements of asphalt binder recovered from field-aged asphalt shingles and laboratory impact performance. With continued validation, the study opens a pathway where key rheological parameter may be considered to enhance asphalt shingle durability.
NCHRP 9-63: Development of a performance specification for chip seals, microsurfacing and slurry seals
Laboratory- and field-based project to develop a performance-related specification system for emulsified asphalt binder used in chip seals, microsurfacing and slurry seals
By modernizing the characterization of emulsified asphalt binders, this project intends to provide a calibrated and validated performance grading system similar to AASHTO M320 and M332 that uses readily available laboratory equipment and reflects varying climatic and traffic conditions.