Paving with a void reducing asphalt membrane (VRAM) solution

Longitudinal joints are a challenging area for asphalt paving.

The Illinois Department of Transportation evaluated the effects of two joint sealants aimed at decreasing permeability along the longitudinal joint which, unmitigated, can lead to deterioration such as cracking, raveling, and stripping - https://idot.illinois.gov/Assets/uplo.... From their report:

"A major factor in the failure of a HMA overlay is the deterioration of the longitudinal joints. The construction of a HMA overlay with uniform properties across the entire lane width is very challenging. Achievement of density at the unconfined edges without over rolling the material can be difficult. Also, permeability of the bituminous overlay increases in areas of
low density. Reduced density and increased permeability of surface water and air leads to premature failures such as cracking, raveling, oxidation, and stripping.'

"In an effort to reduce or prevent the occurrence of longitudinal joint deterioration, IDOT initiated a research study to investigate the constructability and performance of two bituminous sealant systems for longitudinal joints. The two products selected for this research effort are “J-Band®” by Heritage Research Group and “QuickSeam®” by Hendy
Products Incorporated."

As part of their innovative culture, Cecil County Public Works included one of these void reducing asphalt membranes into their asphalt resurfacing project to evaluate whether these products can substantially increase the durability of their longitudinal joints.

The Delaware T2/LTAP Center provides direct technical assistance, training, and technology transfer to Delaware local agencies relative to their transportation challenges.

https://sites.udel.edu/dct/t2-center/
  / delawaret2