A highly modified asphalt (HIMA) was used to cover a section of Route 1

Four years ago, Traxpalco carried out a coating on the concrete pavement of Route 1 to improve the IRI and the general surface condition of the section. The excellent results are felt when one drives on it and that is why an extension is being carried out with a project similar to the one reported in the Bulletin N° 94

On this occasion, a section of approximately one km of an Asphalt Arena was made, in which a highly modified asphalt with SBS polymer was used (HIMA) in a thickness of 20 to 30 mm. It is to be expected a greatly improved performance of this SAMI (Stress Absorbing Membrane Interface) type layer, since the asphalt HIMA It is much more effective than the usual modified asphalts (type AM3) to attenuate the rise of cracks and joints.

The asphalt HIMA It was prepared following the specifications proposed by the Florida Department of Transportation (USA), which is one of the states with the most experience in the use of this new technology. They are evaluated for performance at 76°C in the MSCR test that is carried out with the dynamic shear rheometer, contemplating a maximum viscosity so that mixing and compaction are similar to those used with type modified asphalts. AM2 Y AM3. This could be verified on site since both temperatures were maintained and there was no difference either during the preparation of the mix or when laying it.

The section in question with Arena Asfalto was carried out at km 54 of the roadway beyond Route 1 in the Libertad bypass. On it, the regularizing layer will be applied with a CAD 12 mixture and then an F10 as tread, both made with modified asphalt type AM3. In the vicinity of the Liberty Free Zone, it will also take place on an Asphalt Arena made with AM3 a CAD 12 leveling machine with asphalt HIMA to evaluate the performance of a usual dense mix (with less asphalt content compared to an Asphalt Sand) in attenuating the reflection of joints and cracks.

We will be monitoring the various sections executed to confirm the benefits of this technology that is increasingly being developed worldwide.