Adhesion Properties of Tar-Containing Antiskid Surface Layers on Runways in Airfield

Tar-containing antiskid surface layers are currently used on runways in airfields. They have good adhesion properties and excellent fuel resistance, which make them outstanding compared to other surface layers with bitumen as binder. However, tar-containing products have a high Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) content. They are toxic and not environmental-friendly. Tar-containing products are not allowed in the Netherlands since 20 years ago, with one temporary exception for antiskid surfaces on runways in airfields. After 2010, it will not be allowed to apply such antiskid layers anymore. For this reason, alternatives to tar containing binders for antiskid runways are strongly required. Before looking into alternatives, the properties of tar-containing antiskid surface layer need to be evaluated and benchmarks should be developed. This paper focuses on the mechanical properties of tar-containing antiskid surface layers. A special Leutner shear test and an advanced pull test were designed to test the shear and tensile strength in the interface between the tar containing antiskid layer and the asphalt mixture layer below. Test results are reported in this paper.