Sensitivity of the Superpave mix design method to different methods for determining the maximum specific gravity

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the influence of different methodologies to determine the maximum specific gravity on the Superpave mix design method. The comparative analysis focused on the volumetric parameters, on the choice of the design particle size and, consequently, on the respective design asphalt binder contents of the studied asphalt mixtures. Regarding the particularities of the research, there were no significant differences in the design binder contents obtained using the two adopted methodologies for determining the maximum specific gravity. From a practical point of view, the adoption of any of the methods interfered little with the results of the application of the Superpave mix design method. This fact demonstrates a quality of this method since similar researches based on the Marshall design method evidences the sensitivity of the protocol for determining the asphalt binder content in relation to the used type of maximum specific gravity.