When constructing successive asphalt concrete pavement courses, what is the required offset between them?

The required offset between successive asphalt concrete pavement courses is set at 150 mm to ensure proper bonding and structural integrity. This specific distance helps prevent any potential weakness or shear failure that could occur if the joints of the layers were to align directly above one another. By staggering the joints, the load distribution is improved, leading to a more durable and resilient pavement structure.

Choosing an offset of 150 mm also aligns with standard practices in asphalt paving, which emphasize the importance of interlayer bond strength and the prevention of critical stress concentrations that can arise from aligned joints. This distance promotes better compaction and reduces the risk of moisture infiltration, which can degrade the asphalt over time. The design helps ensure that the pavement maintains its integrity and functionality under various traffic conditions.