Evaluation of Minimum Air Voids Criteria for Porous Asphalt Mixtures Based on Asphalt Pavement Testing

Status: Ongoing

Funding Agency: New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT)

Abstract: 

This project will refine NJDOT’s porous asphalt specifications by evaluating whether the current minimum air void requirement for Modified Open Graded Friction Course can be reduced while still maintaining the permeability needed for stormwater management. Building on earlier accelerated pavement testing at Rowan University CREATES that showed early densification related rutting and, in thicker surface layers, binder bleeding that can close pores, the study will quantify the tradeoff between permeability and rutting resistance for high traffic applications. Laboratory mix designs will be produced for porous mixtures at 16 percent, 18 percent, and 20 percent air voids and for drainage course mixtures at varying binder contents, followed by permeability, rutting, durability, and moisture susceptibility testing with and without an anti stripping agent. The outcomes will deliver New Jersey specific permeability air void correlation models and recommended minimum air void criteria with construction tolerances, supporting updates to NJDOT specifications and practical implementation guidance.

Principal Investigators: Dr. Yusuf Mehta, PhD., Dr. Ayman Ali, PhD., Dr. Abhary Eleyedath, PhD.

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