Compliance of asphalt quality with the specifications for roads financed by the Italian protocol

Abstract

The objective of this dissertation is to investigate the extent to which roads financed under the Fifth Italo-Maltese Protocol comply with the requirements set out in the relevant specifications. In particular, Lot 2A road works will be studied. The results obtained by the different sub-contractors involved in the works will also be analysed to try and establish a pattern of work for each. The dissertation will also look at the crack development in Lot 2 Phase 2 roads, to establish whether the testing carried out would have been sufficient to predict such defects in the early life of the road. The above objective was achieved by a careful analysis of the test results supplied by the Malta Transport Authority (ADT) for Lot 2A road works and by comparison with the appropriate specifications and requirements. Particular attention was given to the properties of the asphalt courses and to the performance of other materials forming the road structure and which directly or indirectly contribute to the quality of the asphalt. A study of the test results for Lot 2 Phase 2 road works, supplemented by on-site observations, made it possible to determine whether or not the cracks at Hemsija may have been avoided. Through this study it has been found that, at first face, the roads financed under the Fifth Italo-Maltese Protocol appear to be of a satisfactory standard. However, the cracks at Hemsija have revealed that the tests which have been carried out may not be enough to guarantee the expected performance and life of the road structure. All conclusions drawn are based on the data which was available to me at the time when this dissertation was written. Additional data may have led to different conclusions.