Moisture damage in asphalt concrete

This synthesis will be of interest to pavement designers, construction engineers, maintenance engineers, and others interested in avoiding or limiting moisture damage in asphalt concrete. Information is provided on physical and chemical explanations for moisture damage in asphalt concrete, along with a discussion of current practices and test methods for determining or reducing the susceptibility of various asphalt concrete components and mixtures to such damage. Moisture damage in asphalt concrete is a nationwide problem which often necessitates premature replacement of highway pavement surfaces. This report of the Transportation Research Board describes the underlying physical and chemical phenomena responsible for such damage. Current test methods used to determine the susceptibility of asphalt concretes, or their constituents, to moisture damage are described and evaluated. Additionally, current practices for minimizing the potential for moisture damage are examined.