Tensile performance evaluation of joint adhesive for asphalt pavements

Deterioration of asphalt pavement joints is one of the most commonly observed distresses on Army airfield pavements. Joint opening or cracking is typically caused by low density, temperature cycling, and associated thermal expansion and contraction of the asphalt pavements and is often seen around the perimeter of hot mix asphalt patching and along longitudinal paving joints. An improvement in joint performance has the potential for significant maintenance cost savings to the Army. The objective of this effort was to perform a literature review of current specifications and available field evaluation studies and to conduct laboratory testing of currently available joint adhesive products in tensile mode to observe ultimate load and elongation characteristics at a variety of test temperatures. Review of limited highway evaluations indicated that, based on visual inspection, joint adhesives have shown improvement in long-term performance. Based on statistical analysis of the laboratory data, performance of joint adhesive products was found to be statistically different than that of standard tack coat. Laboratory results suggested that, based on observed elongation, joint adhesives could provide an improvement in asphalt joint behavior compared to current practice in airfield pavement construction. Published by Elsevier Ltd.