An Overview of Fundamental and Simulative Performance Tests for Hot Mix Asphalt

Abstract

Numerous fundamental and simulative test methods are being used to evaluate the performance of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA). Permanent deformation, fatigue cracking, thermal cracking, loss of surface friction, and stripping are the five main distress types for HMA pavements. All of these distresses can result in loss of performance, but rutting is the one distress that is most likely to be a sudden failure as a result of unsatisfactory HMA. Other distresses are typically long term and show up after a few years of traffic. This paper provides a general overview of the fundamental, empirical, and simulative tests for HMA corresponding to each of these five distresses. All test methods have been evaluated in terms of advantages and disadvantages. However, major emphasis has been placed on tests for evaluating permanent deformation.