Epoxy Asphalt Concrete for Airfield Pavements

Studies of airfield-pavement problems which arise from the combined effects of heavy load, fuel spillage, and jet blast have led to the development of a new type of paving material called epoxy asphalt concrete (EAC). Conventional hot-mix asphalt plants and paving equipment are used in its production. This material has Marshall stability values of 15,000 lb to 20,000 lb and is capable of withstanding tire pressures in excess of 1,000 psi. In repeated gyratory loading simulating B-52 traffic, EAC resists densification and retains its load-carrying ability. Good retention of strength and stability under severe conditions of solvent and fuel spillage has been established by experience in aircraft maintenance areas. In jet-blast tests with military planes, EAC performs well under normal pretakeoff conditions and with prolonged after-burner operation producing pavement temperatures of 800°F. Investigation of its mechanical properties shows that EAC has a flexural strength or modulus of rupture exceeding that of portland cement concrete by a factor of 3 to 6. However, EAC has flexibility which allows it to be bent to the same extent as asphaltic concrete before fracture. The new paving material thus combines the strength of portland cement concrete with the flexibility of asphaltic concrete.