The objective of this study is to evaluate seven different longitudinal joint construction techniques used in one HMA paving project in Colorado and two different techniques used in another paving project in Pennsylvania.

In previous years there has been a problem with longitudinal joint deterioration, due in part to poor construction techniques. The degradation of the longitudinal joints has increased the cost of maintaining these projects and caused unnecessary reflective cracking when overlaid. To reduce the effects of this type of cracking the Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT) is proposing the use of an experimental product as well a various hot mix asphalt (HMA) rolling techniques to increase longitudinal joint densities.

The objective of this research project was to conduct a literature review on longitudinal joint construction for hot- mix asphalt pavements. The review covered the issues related to the principles of hotmix asphalt paving and compaction for longitudinal joint construction, longitudinal joint problems, and some longitudinal joint construction techniques and specifications from different studies. Specific recommendations have also been made for application in the State of Kansas.