DCT Test Sample Preparation

This video demonstrates sample preparation for the disk-shaped compact tension (DCT) test. Low-temperature cracking is the most prevalent distress found in asphalt pavements in cold climates. As the temperature drops, the restrained pavement tries to shrink. Tensile stresses form and eventually build to a point at which a crack is formed. A large multistate effort that studied thermal cracking recommended the DCT test to measure the thermal fracture resistance of asphalt-aggregate mixtures. The DCT test measures a property known as fracture energy. Links: Test specifications (ASTM D7313-13 / MnDOT Modified) - http://www.dot.state.mn.us/research/d... Pooled fund study page - http://www.pooledfund.org/Details/Stu... Research Technical Summary - http://www.dot.state.mn.us/research/T... Final Research Report - http://www.dot.state.mn.us/research/T... Video about the research project -    • Improving Asphalt Pavements in Cold Climates