Investigating the applicability of absorbed emulsion content on tack coat application in field conditions

Abstract

Pavements will function at their fullest capacity when the two bituminous layers in the surface course exist as one. As a solution for this, the ‘tack coat’, which has the ability to merge the layers, has long been used in the field of highway construction. This study revolves around four fundamental parameters that are considered to have the capability of improving efficiency of interface bonding between bituminous layers, namely surface macro-texture, rate of application, residual application rate, and absorbed emulsion content. ‘Sand patch test’ which determines the surface macro-texture, ‘tray test’, which directly ascertains the rate of application, and ‘absorbed emulsion content test’ an alternative measurement of the residual application rate, were conducted. Correlations of the above parameters have been developed with the aid of 3D analysis. Finally, due to variations in the findings of the present and past research, modifications are proposed to be investigated in order to ensure practicability in field conditions. Conclusively, the absorbed emulsion content test should be appropriately modified according to field conditions.