Optimizing joint construction to enhance density and reduce permeability is an effective strategy for boosting long-term pavement performance. Over time, longitudinal construction joints are typically the first part of the pavement to crack and fail. Topical solutions have not been able to address the issue completely and require additional, costly maintenance over the life of the road. Longitudinal joints deteriorate due to lower density, or put another way, a higher presence of air voids that allow for destructive water penetration. Achieving adequate density at the joint of a road is challenging. Well-constructed joints typically have 1-2% lower density than the mat, while poorly constructed joints can be 5-10% lower.
An Innovative Solution
As the adage goes, necessity is the mother of invention. In the early 2000s, a team of innovative industry professionals developed a product to fix joint failure prior to construction. This is where Void Reducing Asphalt Membrane (VRAM) enters the scene. J-Band® is the premier VRAM from Asphalt Materials Inc. and has been proven to extend the lifespan of the asphalt surface course by an additional 4-5 years beyond the typical 15 years.
By applying J-Band VRAM below the joint, pavement permeability is shown to reach zero or near zero, providing an impermeable joint. For roads with a VRAM, if the joint is compacted with the same required roller pattern as the rest of the mat, agencies do not need density testing at the joint. VRAM ensures the centerline will have at least the same performance as the rest of the pavement. The benefits of using J-Brand VRAM during construction are clear, the product saves the motoring public, and agencies, TIME, MONEY and LIVES.
Utah’s Use of VRAM
As of 2024, VRAM has been applied in 27+ states, including Utah. Recently, VRAM was added to UDOT’s Innovation Catalog and the 2025 Innovation & Efficiencies Report, which highlights VRAM’s ability to prolong the life of the asphalt resulting in fewer repairs and maintenance interruptions. UDOT Innovation calculations estimate $134,310 in cost savings per mile by avoiding a mill and fill of the longitudinal joint when the pavement requires its first chip seal. As this number only represents one mile, there is huge time- and money-saving potential across hundreds of road miles!
Try out our free ROI calculator.
J-Band®
jbandinfo@thgrp.com
(317) 434-4606
Asphalt Materials Inc.
8720 Robbins Rd.
Indianapolis, IN 46268
thejointsolution.com
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