Validation of results of asphalt compactability determined by impact compactor according to EN 12697-10 and suggested new solutions for better predictions

Abstract

The compactability is a very important characteristic of asphalt. Proper asphalt compaction ensures that the mixture achieves the planned lifetime, the bearing capacity and the resistance to low and high temperatures. In this study, the compactability determined by the impact compactor as described in the European standard EN 12697-10 was investigated. The standardized model for the compaction propagation was evaluated with the data obtained from the tests performed on six different asphalt mixtures. It was discovered that the model currently in use does not describe the compaction process adequately. The most important information of this model is the prediction of the compaction at the end of the compaction process. In order to achieve better predictions, three new solutions were proposed. The first solution uses the same mathematical model as the European standard, but some of the first points (number of blows of impact compactor) are not taken into account. The second and the third solution propose different mathematical models. After having evaluated all the possible solutions, the third one, which consists of two parts just as the compaction process, proved to be the best.