SPREADING THE WORD ON SUPERPAVE

Superpave is a mix design method that uses a new system for grading asphalt cements and analyzing volumes of aggregates, air voids, and asphalt cement to create an appropriate mixture. A gyratory compaction process is used in the laboratory to determine the design density. The number of gyrations is determined by the volume of traffic that is expected on the roadway. A performance grading system is used to specify binder grades for different regions and climates according to upper and lower temperatures. This article discusses the merits of using Superpave as well as offering suggestions from practioners for the effective use of Superpave and how to deal with construction challenges.