Course Catalogue.

After participating in this course, you will be able to:

• Understand the principles and key components of asphalt mix design and the critical factors that affect mix performance.
• Gain expertise in various mix design methods for roadways and airfields, including Superpave, Marshall, Balanced, and Performance-Based.
• Comprehend the roles and impacts of asphalt binders (both modified and unmodified), aggregates, and recycled materials on mix performance.
• Develop asphalt mix designs using additives and modifiers that meet production limits, project specifications, and performance requirements.
• Scale up performance-based and balanced mix designs effectively to both batch and drum-type asphalt plants.

Description
This course offers an in-depth exploration of the principles and practical applications of asphalt mix design. Participants will delve deeply into the intricacies of asphalt mix design, gaining a solid understanding of foundational concepts and advanced methodologies. The comprehensive curriculum ensures that attendees can effectively apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Targeted at professionals with experience in volumetric asphalt mix design methods such as Marshall and Superpave, this course focuses on elevating expertise through advanced techniques. Participants will learn to design performance-based mixes using mechanistic and index-type test methods, enabling them to create mixes that meet stringent performance criteria for a variety of demanding applications.

By integrating advanced mechanistic testing techniques, this course broadens participants' knowledge and enhances their skills in creating high-quality, durable asphalt mixes. Upon completion, attendees will be well-equipped to address the demands of modern infrastructure projects, contributing effectively to the development and maintenance of reliable and long-lasting pavements.

Who Should Attend
This course is delivered through a dynamic blend of lectures, case studies, and group discussions, ensuring an engaging and interactive learning experience. The course duration is flexible, allowing customization to meet the specific needs of participants and organizations.

Ideal participants include contractors, pavement engineers, and lab technicians seeking to deepen their expertise in asphalt mix design. Engineers from ministries, municipalities, or counties responsible for specifications will also benefit significantly. College and university students aspiring to join the asphalt industry are also encouraged to attend.

This course is also suitable for project managers, quality control supervisors, and industry consultants who want to stay updated with the latest advancements in asphalt technology. Equipment manufacturers and suppliers involved in asphalt production and application will also find it invaluable.

Course Syllabus

The course content is divided into six modules, each covering a specific topic related to asphalt mix design:

Module 1: Introduction to Asphalt Mix Design

• Overview of asphalt mix design history in North America and its importance
• Principles of asphalt mix design
• Factors that affect mix performance
• Historical test methods used in evaluating asphalt binders (modified and unmodified), aggregates, and recycled materials

Module 2: Brief Overview of Superpave and Marshall Mix Design Methods

• Introduction to Superpave and Marshall mix design method
• Shortcomings of each Mix Design method with case studies

Module 3: The Need for Performance Testing

• Introduction to the concept of mix performance testing
• Introduction to
• Expert-level understanding of techniques used in mix performance testing for the following distresses:
• Rutting
• Fatigue and thermal cracking
• Overall stiffness; and
• Creep evaluations.
• Practical testing thresholds and specifications

Module 4: Balanced Mix Design (BMD) Method

• Introduction to AASHTO PP105 Approaches
• Mix design steps and planning
• Testing and evaluation
• Interpretation of results
• Plant scale-up steps and efforts; and
• Troubleshooting during production

Module 5: Performance-Based Mix Design

• Mix design steps and planning
• Testing and evaluation required for Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG)
• Interpretation of results
• Plant scale-up steps and efforts; and
• Troubleshooting during production

Module 6: Effect of Additives, Modifiers, and Recycled Contents

• Types and functions of additives and modifiers
• Evaluation of the impact of additives and modifiers on mix performance
• Use of additives and modifiers in asphalt mix design

Module 7: Implementation

• Development of an effective practical asphalt mix design considering asphalt plant operations and limits
• Integration of mix design with project specifications and performance requirements
• Quality control and quality assurance in the asphalt mix design