Taking a Closer Look at Warm Mix

This article describes the potential benefits of warm mix asphalt, which is asphalt that uses an additive in the mix to allow for a temperature range, typically from about 250 to 275 degrees. This lower temperature allows for fewer emissions than traditional hot mix asphalt (HMA). The additive cost for warm mix is slightly higher than its HMA counterpart due to its restricted production levels- with the aspha-min zeolite costing about $3.60 per ton of mix. The article also describes how the lower temperatures required to heat the mix could lead to fuel saving that outweigh that of the extra additive cost. It is also possible to pour warm mix in cooler temperatures, which effectively extends the seasonal possibilities for its use into the spring and fall. The article also gives some suggestions for the use of warm mix in addition to future tests and determinations necessary for wider-spread adoption of the technology.