Durability of Asphalt Concrete Subjected to Deteriorating Effects of Water and Frost

Abstract

The paper presents testing of the detrimental effects of water and frost on asphalt pavements. It included laboratory testing of fatigue life of asphalt concrete that was subjected to action of water and frost and field testing of damages caused by water and frost on existing asphalt pavements, such as stripping, raveling, and potholes. Laboratory simulation of water and frost action was based on the original AASHTO T283 method and its modification. The original method was modified in such a way that instead of a single freeze-thaw cycle, 50 and 150 cycles were applied. Fatigue life was measured in the indirect tensile fatigue test in the Nottingham Asphalt Tester (NAT) apparatus. The asphalt concrete specimens were prepared in laboratory. Some specimens contained liquid adhesive agent—namely, fatty amine—and others did not. The detrimental effect of water and frost was clearly identified. Also, the results of field investigation—condition survey of existing pavements and the results of laboratory tests on water and frost resistance of samples cored from the these pavements—were presented. The testing procedure, the results, and the practical conclusions are presented.