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    1. Paving Equipment & Materials Production

    New Asphalt Mixture Proves Resilient

    July 1, 2024
    Blend can be applied in one thick layer.
    Photo 33122526 © Bogdanhoda | Dreamstime.com
    Paver laying asphalt

    The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) has applied and tested a new HiMod high-density asphalt blend that the department says will eliminate potholes on roads throughout the state.  Tests completed as far back as three years ago show the mixture's resilience. 

    According to a report from ABC4.com, the mixture uses a significantly higher ratio of polymers as binding glue than traditional asphalt mixes, resulting in a thicker and more durable mixture. 

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    UDOT has spent the last three years testing the new HiMod blend on Interstate 80 in Wendover on the border of Utah and Nevada. The test site was chosen for its extreme weather conditions and heavy traffic.

    According to the report, UDOT said the area has regularly needed maintenance and repair but over the last three years, the initial layer of HiMod mix is still “holding strong."

    In addition to being more durable, UDOT said applying it to Utah roads takes less time. Traditional asphalt mixes require multiple thin layers to be placed with time in between to settle. The HiMod mixture can be laid down with just one thick layer.

    UDOT said other states have also reached out asking about adopting the mix, and it expects its use to grow in the coming years.