Description
This training presents a state-of-the-practice, comprehensive asphalt mix design and analysis system called Superpave – an acronym for SUperior PERforming Asphalt PAVEments). The Superpave mix design method is designed to replace the Marshall and Hveem methods. Superpave accounts for traffic loading and environmental conditions and includes a new method of evaluating the asphalt mixture. In this training, selection of aggregates and asphalt binders materials and development of trial blends and batching suitable to Superpave mix design is briefly discussed. The training presents specimen preparation and compaction processes, volumetric calculations and analysis of compacted asphalt mixes to obtain design binder content, specification, mix design criteria and laboratory test equipment required to design Superpave. The training further covers moisture sensitivity test and performance tests and criteria to address critical pavement distresses such as rutting, fatigue cracking and low temperature cracking. Discussions on the challenges and opportunities of developing Superpave specification and it’s implementations in the context of developing counties are included.
Training topics to be covered include:
• Role of asphalt mixes in pavements
• Overview of asphalt mix design methods
• Testing and requirements for aggregate properties
• Superpave binder testing and specification
• Volumetric analysis and properties of asphalt mixtures
• Moisture sensitivity testing
• Performance tests for rutting and cracking resistance
• Field verification of Superpave mixes
Outcomes
Upon the completion of this training, participants will be able to:
• Select asphalt and aggregate materials knowing their effect on asphalt mixture properties
• Perform proportioning, volumetric calculations and analysis
• Conduct moisture sensitive and performance laboratory tests
• Interpret laboratory test results and relate to field conditions
• Manage quality of Superpave mix design
Methodology
During the training, the instructor presents topics and activities in a logical sequence allowing participants to demonstrate their experience, knowledge and skills. The training sessions will be participatory and engaging training sessions will be conducted. Training participants will be requested to work in groups on a specific topic and they will present these to virtual class. The training delivery activities include lectures, exercises, group discussions, instructor-led example problem sets and, lively discussions and the demonstration of LTPPBind software for selecting Performance Grade (PG) binder.
Target student
The target audience for this training consists of pavement and material engineers, lab managers and technicians, quality control/assurance supervisors, material and equipment suppliers and asphalt plant operators. Other training beneficiary includes engineering professionals closely working with quality control and quality assurance of new and rehabilitated asphalt pavements.
This training includes:
Modality: Instructor-led/Online
Start Date: The first Saturday of the month
Duration: 32 h 00 min
Downloadable resources (books and articles)
Advanced Level
Certificate of completion
Reviews:
The instructor focused on the intention behind and uses of concepts, while also explaining concepts clearly by providing practically relevant examples in roads construction. Dr. Habtamu is an amazing instructor, taking time to answer my questions and explaining advanced concepts really well. I also feel privileged to be mentored by him during my master’s program in Construction Engineering and Management . . . [Thadeus Ondiege – Professional Civil and Highway Engineer in Kenya].
The training is well organized, responsive and able to clearly/explain complex topics in the area. Words are powerless to express my gratitude to Dr. Habtamu. My deepest appreciation to you – I will never forget the experience during the training session . . . [Debere Takele – Resident Engineer in Ethiopia].
Instructor
