Low temperature cracking analysis of asphalt binders and mixtures

Low temperature cracking (LTC), or thermal cracking, is one of the most prevalent asphalt concrete (AC) pavement distresses in northern states and countries. Extensive efforts have been made on the characterization of LTC of AC pavements and specification development for pavement design. With the recent update of binder cracking temperature approach in AASHTO specification M 320, this study aimed at conducting a comprehensive LTC analysis of typical Alaskan asphalt materials including both laboratory tests and analytical assessment. The critical cracking temperatures for both binders and mixtures were correlated and compared. The pavement temperatures in winter time for typical Alaskan AC pavements were predicted using the TEMPS software and compared with the critical cracking temperatures of mixtures. Findings and recommendations were provided regarding adaptation of binders and mixtures to better address the LTC in Alaskan pavements.