Used since 2002 and now across 19 states, J-Band has a proven track record of delivering longer road life, while also offering an impressive return on investment. Developed at the laboratories of Heritage Research Group, J-Band is applied during the road construction process just below the final layer of asphalt pavement. Once covered, it migrates upwards filling the voids that can be penetrated by water and air, preventing damage before it can start. Asphalt Materialโs J-Band product is a void reducing asphalt membrane (VRAM).
This particular project took place in August of 2021 in eastern Michigan. The 0.93 mile section starts at 10-mile road and ends at 9-mile road. The J-Band application began early in the morning with typical temperatures recorded. The width of this project was found toย be a consistent 18 inches.
Paving began the following day with typical ambient and binding temperatures recorded.ย Paving beganย atย 10-mile roadย and ended atย 9-mile road.ย
EDITOR’S NOTES:ย Depending on the specifications in each state, there may be an upper limit on temperature. In addition, width and application rates are also specified. Measures should be taken in all cases to ensure compliance with specifications. VRAM, Void Reducing Asphalt Membrane is referred to in Illinois as LJS, Longitudinal Joint Sealant. Depending on the situation VRAM can be sprayed at different widthโs. This article notes 18โ which is a typical application width for centerline applications.
Photos from the project can be viewed below.
The VRAM product from Asphalt Materials is called J-Band and was created in the labs of The Heritage Research Group.
