Development and evaluation of a field permeameter as a longitudinal joint quality indicator

Abstract

Intrusion of water through longitudinal joints can cause premature distress in hot mix asphalt (HMA) pavements. Similar to mat permeability, joint permeability is a critical factor governing the performance of HMA pavements. Hence, joint permeability should be used as a measure of quality of joint construction. In this ongoing study, a simple and effective permeameter has been developed, and used in a rational method to evaluate the permeability of longitudinal joints, relative to the permeability of the adjacent mat. The permeameter consists of three standpipes, which can be used for measuring the flow of water through a joint and through the mat on either side of the joint. Results from testing on several projects show that this permeameter can be used successfully to determine permeability of joints. The testing performed in this study shows that joints have significantly higher permeability compared to adjacent mats, different types of joints have different permeabilities and that treatment of joints with sealers and using improved joint construction techniques such as joint heater can reduce the permeability significantly. More testing of joints is being carried out, with the objective of developing specific criteria for using the joint permeameter for quality control of construction of longitudinal joints.

Keywords:

• HMA construction
• Longitudinal joint
• Permeability
• Density
• Longitudinal cracking

Acknowledgements

This paper, prepared in cooperation with the New England Transportation Consortium, does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. The contents of this paper reflect the views of the authors who are responsible for the facts and the accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the views of the New England Transportation Consortium or the Federal Highway Administration. The authors would like to thank the NH DOT, CT DOT and ME DOT for their cooperation in arranging for testing of joints and coring. Also, the authors acknowledge Matthew Teto, Jon Gould and Sudip Bhattacharjee at WPI and Nick Pulire, Nick Flagg, and Felix Rivera at UNH for their work in constructing the permeameter, running tests in the field, and testing cores in the laboratory. Special thanks go to Erika Smith and Brian Marquis from CT and ME DOT, respectively, for their help. Finally, the authors would like to thank Dr Walaa Mogawer for his feedback on the project and paper.

Notes

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Additional information

Notes on contributors

J. S. Daniel

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