The objectives of this research were to (1) identify construction-related quality characteristics of HMA pavement that affect long-term pavement performance; (2) identify quality characteristics of as-produced HMA that reflect compositional, volumetric, and fundamental engineering properties in terms of long-term pavement performance; and (3) select and prepare for use in PRS simple, practical, and rapid tests that measure these quality characteristics in the field.

Five quality characteristics for HMA pavements were identified that are candidates for use in a PRS. They are segregation, ride quality, in-place density, longitudinal construction joint density, and in-place permeability. These quality characteristics were selected because of their importance in determining the overall performance of HMA pavements. Test methods for measuring each of these quality characteristics and initial specification criteria and threshold values were recommended for use in a PRS and are presented in Appendix C of the final report for Project 9-15. The specification criteria and threshold values are based upon data collected in Project 9-15 and on information gained from other sources. Further and continued validation of these specification criteria is critical, as is further refinement of the test methods.

A summary of the key findings has been published as NCHRP Research Results Digest 291.The complete revised final report is available for loan from NCHRP.