Abstract
Micro surfacing is a treatment capable of addressing minor surface defects, protecting the pavement structure from moisture, and overall extending pavement life when applied to structurally sound pavements. This treatment is suitable for use on high traffic volume roads, providing a cost-effective alternative for state highway agencies. To better evaluate field performance of micro surfacing, a full-scale test section was placed on the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) Test Track during its fifth research cycle in 2014. An existing pavement section constructed in 2009 was identified as a suitable candidate for pavement preservation. The pavement consisted of 7 in. of asphalt concrete over 4.8 in. of aggregate base and had started to show signs of deterioration after receiving over 17.5 million equivalent single axle loads (ESALs), but was in overall good condition. The section was split into two subsections, leaving one untreated and placing a type II micro surface on the other. Both subsections have been monitored periodically, measuring performance indicators such as cracking, rutting, IRI and friction. Since treatment, an additional 17 million ESALs have been applied to the pavement over the course of five years. The observed results show that micro surfacing has been effective in slowing down pavement deterioration compared to the control section. Findings are similar to those observed on other NCAT full-scale test sections located on open roadways, which are not subjected to accelerated testing.
Published Version
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