Comparing lab to field properties in CEN Type Testing for Asphalt Concrete – the NL-LAB program

Abstract

In 2008 Europe introduced the CEN standards for Asphalt Concrete (EN13108 series). The Netherlands adopted the approach of fundamental requirements and input target composition. The aim was to achieve a better understanding of those mechanical properties and eventually enable less prescriptive requirements for the composition while retaining well-functioning pavement materials. This was seen as a pre-requisite for innovations in pavement engineering and pavement materials.
Some surprises in laboratory performance led to the initiation of a program using the Dutch road network as a living laboratory (NL-LAB). Using laboratory produced and field specimens, this program aims first of all to assess the effects of mixing and compaction on the fundamental properties used in the Netherlands. This paper describes the NL-LAB program and the results for the first projects that are analysed, focussing on the stiffness and resistance to permanent deformation. The results show that, although the fundamental approach indeed stimulates research into a more fundamental understanding of Asphalt Concrete, the current understanding is still far from complete. It also highlights the importance of well standardized tests and the importance of inter-laboratory studies.

Original document

The different versions of the original document can be found in:

• https://zenodo.org/record/1485082 under the license http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/legalcode

• https://zenodo.org/record/1485082,

http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.1485081 under the license http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/legalcode

• https://zenodo.org/record/1485082,

http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.1485082 under the license http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/legalcode

DOIS: 10.5281/zenodo.1485082 10.5281/zenodo.1485081