Abstract
The primary objective of the FHWA-sponsored WesTrack project is to further the development of performance-related specifications for hotmix asphalt construction. This objective is being achieved, in part, through the accelerated loading of a full-scale test track facility in northern Nevada. Twenty-six hot-mix asphalt test sections constructed to meet the criteria set forth in a statistically based experiment design are providing performance data that will be used to improve existing (or develop new) pavement performance prediction relationships that better account for the effects that “off-target” values of asphalt content, air-void content, and aggregate gradation have on such distress factors as fatigue cracking, permanent deformation, roughness, raveling, and tirepavement friction. The concept of the planned new performance-related specification and how it will incorporate the modified pavement performance prediction models are described. The current plan for assessing contractor pay adjustments (i.e., penalties and bonuses) based on data collected from the as-constructed pavement is also discussed.
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