One of the objectives of the SHRP Project A-003A has been the development of a series of accelerated performance-related tests to define asphalt-aggregate interactions which affect pavement performance. Tests included those fatigue, permanent deformation, thermal cracking, aging, and water sensitivity. This report provides a brief summary of the processes which lead to the selection of each of the tests. Inherent in this test selection process was the emphasis on the ability of the tests to measure fundamental material properties which, when incorporated into prediction models, will depend less on empirical correlations than has been traditionally the case. Also included are the results of validation studies for each of the tests and frameworks for the use of the tests in mix design and analysis. Serveral levels of design are provided for each distress, some of which incorporate reliability concepts.
Abstract