1. Reflective cracking and plow damage reduced by using softer base asphalts, higher emulsion contents, and increased polymer loadings in the micro surfacing mixes
2. IRI improved from 166.3” per mile to 61.4” per mile after micro-milling and micro surfacing

Backstory

Progressive agencies are constantly seeking the most cost effective methods to improve ride quality and decrease cracking as part of their overall pavement management strategy. More and more agencies like MnDOT are finding the use of micro-milling and high performance micro surfacing mixes to be worthwhile investments of their limited funding.

Problem

MnDOT has had a long history of successes using micro surfacing. With its harsh wet-freeze climate and frequent snow plowing, the Minnesota agency needed new ways to further improve the crack resistance and plow abrasion durability of their micro surfacing mixes.

[Future] monitoring will determine how cost effective this process is for ride improvement and preservation of the pavements, but initial results are promising.

Jerry Geib
MnDOT

Solution

Photos