Kyle Turner

Date of Graduation

2015

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

College

Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

Department

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Committee Chair

John Zaniewski

Committee Co-Chair

Avinash Unnikrishnan

Committee Member

Yoojung Yoon

Abstract

With the initial implementation of the Superpave mixture design method, no method "proof" testing the mixtures was included. This eventually led to the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) to sponsor projects that would eventually lead to the implementation of proof tests and a machine capable of performing these tests. The Asphalt Mixture Performance Tester (AMPT), which is capable of performing dynamic modulus |E*| and flow number tests, was the product of these sponsored research projects.;The objective of this research was to set up the AMPT, establish a working procedure for preparing and testing specimens in the machine, demonstrate the machines capabilities by evaluating the relative performance of three binders, and evaluating testing protocols. Methods for preparing and testing specimens using the AMPT were refined throughout the setup of the machine prior to collection of data. Data collected using the AMPT was then evaluated and indicated that the machine was capable of producing data consistent with what was found in the literature review. Additionally, the performance a polymer modified PG 70-22 was found to be consistent with or slightly better than the unmodified version. Further analysis also indicated that dynamic modulus testing does not statistically affect the results of flow number testing, however the 4 hour oven aging time required for flow number testing does have a statistically significant effect. All statistical analysis were performed at a 0.05 significant level.

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