Using the Bailey method to improve asphalt concrete mix performance indicators for balanced mix design

The Bailey method is a tool that optimizes asphalt concrete mixes, considering the packing of both coarse and fine aggregates. Nonetheless, the usefulness of the Bailey for balanced mix designs has not been studied in Canada. Aggregates’ packing could influence the asphalt mixture’s resistance to distresses such as rutting and cracking. This study provides insight into the modifications and performance indicators of selected asphalt mixtures in New Brunswick. Testing included the Hamburg wheel tracking test, the ideal shear rutting test, and the indirect tensile asphalt cracking test. The test results from laboratory mixes produced according to the latest and currently approved designs were compared using various statistical analyses. The results suggest that using the Bailey method could enhance the rutting resistance while maintaining acceptable cracking resistance in asphalt mixtures. This research’s findings are relevant to identifying alternative changes or adjustments when using the balanced mix design approach.