Analysis of the benefits and potential use of warm mix asphalt for local road construction

Abstract

The use of warm mix asphalt (WMA) instead of conventional hot mix asphalt (HMA) was evaluated for the local road construction industry. A laboratory analysis was carried out to analyse the performance benefits of warm mix asphalt using Sasobit as WMA technology. Marshall test was carried out to compare performance with the local specifications while performance was further evaluated using wheel tracking and stiffness tests. Results show WMA performs similar to HMA and satisfies local specifications while enabling production at lower temperatures. Analysis of other. benefits showed that WMA would enhance health and safety of asphalt workers' working conditions and improve the environmental performance of asphalt. On the other hand WMA would require investment in local asphalt production plants and the cost of the additive may not be offset by savings from reduced fuel costs due to current low fuel prices.