Field Trials of Sulphur-Extended-Asphalt Binder in Open Graded Friction Course Loop 495, Nacogdoches, Texas -- A Detailed Construction Report

Important experience has been gained in the successful use of sulphur-extended-asphalt (SEA) binder in an open graded friction course (OGFC) in field trials conducted on Loop 495 in Nacogdoches, Texas on August 7 and 8, 1980. This project was the first whereby the State Department of Highways and Public Transportation (SDHPT) has used SEA in an 'OGFC pavement and also marks the first time that separate streams of sulphur and asphalt have been added directly to the aggregate in a dryer drum. As a result of the above project, experience in the use of SEA in an OGFC has been gained in the areas of preliminary laboratory design, plant modification and operation, roadway operations, emission measurements and post construction testing and pavement performance. Research to date has indicated that the SEA binder OGFC pavement is performing as well as the conventional OGFC pavement. Problems encountered with the SEA include the need for additional facilities to handle the sulphur and some irritation to workers from emissions.