Improving the Skid Resistance and Surface Texture of Asphalt Pavement Using AMIR Compactor Technology

Compaction of asphalt pavements is defined as the process of reducing the air voids in the asphalt mixture and enhancing the interlock between the aggregate particles through rearranging them more closely together in order to create a denser and more effective asphalt mixture [1]. In Ontario, Canada, since 1970, the currently conventional compaction method encompasses three stages with one specific roller for each stage. The main result of using three types of rollers is the attempt to treat the formation of hairline cracks (check cracks) caused by the vibratory steel roller used in the first stage of compaction, the breakdown stage. In the second stage of compaction, the intermediate stage, a pneumatic roller is used due to the false belief that it treats the hairline cracks caused in the first stage. In the third stage, the finish stage, a static smooth roller smoothens the tire marks left by the pneumatic roller in the second stage [2]. Although the current conventional compaction method satisfies the road authority’s requirement of densification, the design objectives of asphalt pavements are rarely met because the pavements deteriorate earlier than the expected design service life (15 to 20 years), despite significant improvements to asphalt mix quality, testing methods, contract specification, and workmanship [3]. The main reason for premature deterioration of asphalt pavements is related to deficiencies in the conventional compaction method that induces check cracking and results in pavement distresses such as surface cracks, low compaction at unsupported edges and longitudinal joints, and loss of fine aggregates. Furthermore, the resulted cracks permit water to penetrate the surface of the top asphalt layer leading to additional damage caused by freeze/thaw cycles and stripping.