Characterization of foamed-bitumen stabilisation

Abstract

Since 1997 Main Roads has been developing the foamed-bitumen stabilisation technique to provide a more flexible and fatigue resistant stabilisation treatment suitable for Queensland conditions. Several projects have been completed using this technique. Supplementary specifications have been also developed based on the experience to date. These project sites are currently being monitored to assess the performance of this treatment. This monitoring includes site inspections, fatigue and rut resistance testing, deflection testing, backanalysis of deflection and coring of samples from the field to assess its performance properties. This paper summarises the experience and knowledge of this treatment currently in the Queensland Main Roads Department. As the process becomes more accepted and greater volumes of material are recycled, the design, construction and maintenance techniques will be further developed in the light of the increased data available. Further testing and performance monitoring will also be required to determine whether superior performance and lower maintenance is possible using the foamed-bitumen stabilisation method compared to other more conventional stabilisation treatments.

Keywords:

• Stabilization
• Foam
• Monitoring
• Recycling
• Quality control