Variability and Uncertainty of Overlay Tester Testing Data, Analysis, and Results
Publication: Airfield and Highway Pavements 2021
ABSTRACT
The Texas Transportation Institute Overlay Tester (OT) is the most popular equipment to measure the reflective cracking performance of the asphalt mixtures in the laboratory. However, there is a high level of variability associated with the number of cycles to failure (NOT) determined from this test, and it has been a challenge in dependably predicting the reflective cracking performance of asphalt mixtures. The main goal of this study is to identify the reasons for high variability in OT testing data and results. A thorough literature review of recent studies regarding this issue has been conducted, and the potential causes of variability have been categorized based on different phases of OT testing, including testing procedure, data analysis, and reporting results. Finally, the study concludes with recommendations to help minimize these factors causing variability of the OT results and increase repeatability and thereby increase the overall effectiveness and credibility of OT test.
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© 2021 American Society of Civil Engineers.
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Published online: Jun 4, 2021
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