Form ProjStat
(Rev. 5/2013)
(RTI)
Research Project Statement 17-23
FY 2017 Annual Program
Title:
Improving the Performance-Graded Asphalt Binder Specification (Deliverable Based)
The Problem:
The performance-graded (PG) asphalt binder specification was implemented by TxDOT in the
1990s to address shortcomings of traditional specifications that did not include the entire
temperature spectrum, long-term aging, or modified binders. Since then, additional binder tests
have been developed and binder additives, crude sources, and refining practices have changed
significantly to the point where premature failures are of concern. There is a need to change the
PG specification to ensure adequate performance and possibly simplify required testing.
Technical
Objectives:
A wide assortment of binders commonly used by TxDOT that are associated with good and poor
field performance, along with artificial binder blends, will be graded according to the existing PG
specification in TxDOT Standard Specification Item 300, Asphalts, Oils, and Emulsions. These
binders will be tested by more recent methods that utilize existing equipment, including the
Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR), Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR), and associated aging by
the Rolling Thin Film Oven Test and the Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV). More recent binder test
methods include determination of the Glover-Rowe parameter that ties to inadequate ductility
and cracking, Δ(Tc) from the difference in low temperature grade based on stiffness and stress
relaxation ability (m-value) after extended PAV aging, aging characterization by growth of
carbonyl area, and extended BBR. Methods for use in a revised PG specification will include
those that can differentiate performance based on both binder tests and mixture cracking, and
possibly moisture susceptibility tests utilized to assess performance when field performance data
are not available. Compatibility will also be addressed as increased use of recycled materials,
including reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and recycled asphalt shingles (RAS), bring the
issue of blending virgin and aged binders and other additives, including recycling agents to the
forefront.
Desired
Deliverables:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Proposal
Requirements:
1. Utilize the deliverable based templates (see the appendices provided or in the University
Handbook).
2. Proposals will be considered non-responsive and will not be accepted for technical
evaluation if they are not received by the deadline or do not meet the requirements stated in
RTI’s University Handbook.
3. Proposals should be submitted in PDF format, 1 PDF file per proposal. File name should
include project name and university abbreviation.
Pre-Proposal
Meeting
Information:
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
9:00 – 9:45AM
Austin Riverside Campus
118 E. Riverside Dr.
RTI Conference Room, 1st Floor
Value of Research (VoR) that includes both qualitative and economic benefits.
Proposed revised PG binder specification.
Workshop and associated training materials.
Report describing entire development process.
Webex Information:
1. Go to
https://txdot.webex.com/mw0401lsp13/mywebex/default.do?siteurl=txdot&rnd=0.9091095085622
569
2. Meeting Number: 735 915 144
3. If requested, enter your name and email address.
4. If a password is required, enter the meeting password: FY17
5. Click "Join".
Project Statement 17-23
Form ProjStat
(Rev. 5/2013)
(RTI)
Teleconference Information:
Provide your phone number when you join the meeting to receive a call back. Alternatively, you
can call:
Call-in toll-free number: 1-866-637-1408 (US)
Conference Code: 951 211 7290
Notifying RTI of
Intent to
Propose:
Notify your University Liaison of your intent to submit a proposal. Your Liaison will provide
information regarding the RFP.
Proposal
Deadline:
Proposals are due to RTI by 4:00 P.M. Central Daylight Time, April 14, 2016. Email
submissions should be sent to rtimain@txdot.gov.
Project Statement 17-23