Civil and Environmental Engineering Thesis Presentation by Cameron Ferreira
Abstract
Assessment of Massachusetts Asphalt Mixtures: EPDs and Cradle-to-Grave LCA of High RAP Mixes and Targeted Overlay Pavements
by Cameron Michael Ferreira
This study investigated the environmental impacts of Massachusetts asphalt mixtures, focusing on their global warming potential (GWP) using reported environmental product declarations (EPDs). A life-cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted to evaluate the environmental impact from cradle-to-grave on two types of sustainable and low-carbon asphalt mixtures: high reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) content surface mixtures with up to 40% RAP, and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) targeted overlay pavement solutions (TOPS). EPDs were collected from the National Asphalt Pavement Association’s (NAPA) EPD creation tool, Emerald Eco-Label, and categorized by mix characteristics to identify factors influencing GWP. The GWP of these mixtures was compared to national benchmarking standards to assess Massachusetts' performance in terms of GWP. AASHTOWare® PMED software was utilized to predict the performance of the high RAP content and TOPS mixtures beyond cradle-to-gate reporting. The LCA was performed using the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) LCA tool, LCAPave, over a 20-year cradle-to-grave analysis period. This analysis incorporated publicly available reports and performance predictions, which helped determine the appropriate treatments and timing to extend the service life of the mixtures. Based on the findings, Massachusetts mixes have overall lower emissions compared to national benchmarks. Additionally, recycled material and mix design characteristics, such as binder content, significantly impact both performance and GWP of asphalt mixtures.
CIE Conference Room 4
: 151 Martine Street Fall River, MA 02723
Dr. Walaa Mogawer
508-910-9824
wmogawer@umassd.edu