Structural Road Surveys Using a Curviameter Device. Analysis of the Temperature Effect on Asphalt Mixes Properties

Abstract

Non-destructive deflection testing is one of the most reliable methods available to determine the structural condition of an in-service pavement. The measured pavement deflection is used to determine the structural adequacy of a pavement, related to the number of allowable load repetitions. There are different systems used to measure pavement deflections. The curviameter is one of the most appropriate devices for the measurement of deflections in an extensive Roadway Network for a Pavement Management System. It enables areas with a homogeneous behaviour to be determined as well as to locate singular points of low bearing capacity. The measurement is done at a speed of 18 km/h, taking measurements every 5 m. The system determines the entire deflection bowl defined by sampling 100 points on each measurement. In addition, a literature review of the temperature effect on asphalt mixes behaviour is presented. Also, in order to analyze the effect of the pavement temperature during the test on the asphalt mixes elasticity modulus, an experimental test was carried out. It consisted of three deflection tests using curviameter device, at different temperatures, in a section of road with flexible pavement. A temperature adjustment factor for asphalt mixes elasticity modulus is obtained from the experimental study. Finally, this experimental factor and those deduced from the main existing models are compared. The comparative analysis performed shows, in general, a good agreement between the temperature adjustment factor obtained from the experimental study and those deduced from the existing models.