Asphalt Paving Inspection Flashcards

What does the term 'bleeding' refer to in asphalt pavement?

Answer: Excess asphalt binder migrating to the surface

Bleeding occurs when excess asphalt binder migrates upward to the pavement surface, creating a shiny, sticky film.

During asphalt paving operations, what is the primary purpose of the screed on a paving machine?

Answer: To compact and smooth the asphalt to the required thickness and surface texture

The screed strikes off, consolidates, and textures the asphalt mat to the specified width, thickness, and surface finish.

What minimum pavement surface temperature is typically required before applying tack coat?

Answer: 50°F (10°C)

Tack coat is generally not applied when the pavement surface temperature is below 50°F (10°C) because the emulsion will not break and bond properly.

A longitudinal joint in an asphalt pavement is best described as a joint that runs:

Answer: Parallel to the direction of traffic

Longitudinal joints run parallel to the direction of travel and typically occur between adjacent paving lanes.

Which test is used in the field to measure the density of a compacted asphalt pavement layer non-destructively?

Answer: Nuclear density gauge test

The nuclear density gauge measures the density of compacted asphalt pavement non-destructively by emitting gamma radiation and detecting backscatter.

What is the allowable tolerance for surface smoothness (ride quality) typically measured with during CTQP asphalt inspection?

Answer: Profilograph or inertial profiler

A profilograph or inertial profiler is used to measure pavement ride quality and profile index to verify smoothness requirements are met.

When inspecting a transverse joint, which condition indicates proper construction?

Answer: The new mat is 1/2 inch higher than the existing pavement before rolling

The new mat should be placed slightly high (approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch) before rolling so that after compaction it will be flush with the existing surface.