Citation

Kandhal P, Mallick R. Transp. Res. Circular 1998; (E-C005): 20 p..

Copyright

(Copyright © 1998, U.S. National Academy of Sciences Transportation Research Board)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Open-graded friction courses (OGFCs) have been used since 1950 in different parts of the United States to improve the frictional resistance of asphalt pavements. However, the experience of states with this kind of mix has been widely varied. This circular presents the results of a survey carried out by the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) on design and construction practices for OGFCs. Briefly, it was found that significant improvements have been observed in the performance of OGFCs since their introduction in the 1950s. Half of the states surveyed in this study indicated good experience with OGFCs. More than 70% of the states that use OGFCs reported service life of 8 or more years. About 80% of the states using OGFCs have standard specifications for design and construction. The vast majority of states reporting good experience use polymer-modified asphalt binders. Also, gradations of aggregates used by these states tend to be somewhat coarser than gradations used earlier and gradations used by the states that had bad experience with OGFCs. It seems that good design and construction practice is the key to improved performance of OGFC mixes. An improved mix design procedure is needed to help the states adopt these good practices.