Category: Research and Studies

The J-Band Blog

In Research and Studies

Understanding Joint Behavior With & Without VRAM

Understanding Joint Behavior With & Without VRAM
As pavement technologies evolve, so do the best practices for road performance evaluation and maintenance. One such innovation, J-Band® void-reducing asphalt membrane (VRAM), protects vulnerable longitudinal joints from the damaging effects of air voids and water intrusion. This leading-edge material is being used by state and local agencies to extend...
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November 21, 2025 by Olivia Kortepeter
In Infrastructure , Research and Studies , Safety

Nuclear Density Gauge Testing on VRAM Joints

This article explores why nuclear density gauge testing may not be accurate or necessary when J-Band® Void Reducing Asphalt Membrane (VRAM) is applied beneath longitudinal joints.
This article explores why nuclear density gauge testing may not be accurate or necessary when J-Band® Void Reducing Asphalt Membrane (VRAM) is applied beneath longitudinal joints.  Why Measure Density?  Density is measured during asphalt pavement construction because it is a strong indicator of pavement performance, even though other measurements also...
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October 31, 2025 by Olivia Kortepeter
In Research and Studies

Understanding Longitudinal Joint Performance with Permeability Testing

J-Band
Pavement performance is closely tied to density, which measures compaction. Achieving high density at the longitudinal joint has always been challenging. Another way to evaluate density is through permeability: the denser the pavement, the less water can infiltrate. Water intrusion is a leading cause of early pavement failure, especially at...
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September 26, 2025 by Olivia Kortepeter
In Great Asphalt Moments , Project Reviews , Research and Studies , Rumble Strips , Safety , Uncategorized

Preserving Rumble Strips: Real-World Reviews of VRAM for Rumble Strip Longevity

J-Band
Rumble strips play a critical role in keeping drivers alert and roadways safe. However, they are typically constructed over or near longitudinal joints, the part of the pavement that is already vulnerable to water intrusion and early deterioration. To reinforce rumble strips, their pavement foundation—the longitudinal joint area—needs to be...
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April 13, 2025 by Olivia Kortepeter
In Research and Studies , RPE , Rumble Strips , Safety , Specialty Products

NRRA: Materials-Based Methods to Improve Rumble Strip Durability

Installation of Sinusoidal Rumble Strips (”Mumble Strips”) in Wood County, WI
In 2023, the National Road Research Alliance (NRRA) issued a call for innovation for preventative roadway maintenance and this project answered: Materials-Based Methods to Improve Rumble Strip Durability.   The team of researchers behind this study began with the following questions: Does the installation of milled rumble strips in new pavement...
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March 31, 2025 by Olivia Kortepeter
In Case Studies , Great Asphalt Moments , Research and Studies

Accelerated VRAM Pavement Testing at the NCAT Test Track

Sign of the Test Cell s-13
The NCAT Test Track  The National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) Test Track at Auburn University is a proving ground for asphalt pavements. Made up of a 1.7-mile oval, the Test Track is divided into 200-foot test sections to create a real-world laboratory for innovative paving techniques and products. In...
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November 12, 2024 by Olivia Kortepeter