A systems study of the hot-mix asphalt industry

Abstract

The Hot-Mix asphalt paving market is expected to at least double by 1935. The producers of Hot-Mix, as represented by the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA), face many problems, both for survival and profit, during this time period. In addition, to vigorous competition by advocates and purveyors of Portland) Cement Concrete paving, these problems include: 1. A lack of comprehensive decisionmaking information about market density and demand, and industry capacity and mobility. 2. Higher than necessary costs for materials, plant production, and transportation. 3. An excessive number and variety of specifications for materials, mixes, and production procedures. 4. A substantial amount of uncoordinated and unevaluated research. Within the capabilities of NAPA, the actions recommended in this report for immediate pursuance include: 1. Establishment of an in-house (NAPA) information system. 2. Thorough evaluation of a new production method, the 'Turbulent Mass' process. 3. Provide the leadership in an Industry-wide drive to standardize specifications. 4. Provide the leadership in the establishment of a national non-partisan evaluation board for evaluation of materials, construction methods, mimes, research, and equipment. From the constant evaluations, frequent state-of-the-art papers should be issued.