Superpave Mix in Hawaii Performance Effects of Using Local Materials and Construction Practices on the Production, Paving Operations, and Short Term Characteristics of Superpave Mix

The final product of the SHRP asphalt research program (October 1987 to March 1993) is a new asphalt pavement referred to as Superior Performing Asphalt Pavement (SUPERPAVE). This report evaluated the first paving project using the Superpave mix. Production of the Superpave mix was accomplished by using locally produced aggregates and asphalt cement. The Superpave mix was successfully placed and compacted by a local paving contractor with typical paving equipment and standard paving operation. The Superpave mix is very stable and should provide greater resistance to pavement deformation (rutting) than the standard asphalt concrete mixes currently being used. An area for concern for long-term durability of the Superpave mix is the segregated surface appearance, which may be due to the separation of the coarse aggregates from the rest of the mixture and coarser gradation as compared to the standard asphalt concrete mixes. Based on the satisfactory results and performance of the Superpave mix, it is recommended as a standard pavement surface for the Hawaii Department of Transportation, Highways Division.