AASHTO PP 117-2023
Durable Green Bike Lane Surface Treatments for Asphalt and Concrete Pavements with Exposure to Vehicular Traffic

Standard No.

AASHTO PP 117-2023

Release Date

2023

Published By

American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials  US  /  AASHTO

Latest

AASHTO PP 117-2023

Introduction

Analysis of the Technical Framework of the AASHTO PP 117-231 Standard

The PP 117-231 standard, first published in 2023 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), establishes detailed technical specifications for durable green bike lane surface treatments (DGBLST) on asphalt and concrete pavements. This standard provides a complete technical framework for bike lane surface treatments exposed to vehicular traffic, from material selection and performance requirements to testing methods.

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Scope of Application and Technical Background

The PP 117-231 standard primarily applies to bike lane surface treatments that are subject to vehicular traffic, including intersections and other areas of conflicting traffic. The standard defines the basic components of a DGBLST material system, requiring a minimum single-layer structure consisting of: a bonding resin system (containing 100% polymeric resin or methyl methacrylate (MMA)) and/or a preformed or hot-applied thermoplastic material.

The development of this standard stems from the rapid development of urban bicycle infrastructure and the increasing demand for cycling safety. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued Interim Approval Document IA-14 in 2011 officially recognized the use of green pavement marking materials in bike lanes, providing the regulatory basis for the development of the PP 117-231 standard.

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Comparative Analysis of Core Material Technical Requirements

Material Type	Key Performance Indicators	Test Standards	Technical Requirements
Bonding Resin System	Gel Time	M 235M/M 235	≥15 minutes
	Elongation at Break	ASTM D638	≥30%
	Duro Hardness (Type D)	ASTM D2240	50-80 (Polymer Resin) 40-75 (MMA Resin)
Thermoplastic Material	Softening Point	ASTM D36/D36M	≥195°F (Hot Application) ≥200°F (Preform)
	Duro Hardness	ASTM D7735	40-75 (Hot Application) 30-70 (Preform)
Aggregate Material	Minimum Hardness	ASTM C1895	≥5.5
	Abrasion Rate	T 96	≤30%
	Moisture Content	T 255	≤0.2%

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Performance Requirements and Safety Standards

The standard establishes stringent performance requirements for the installed DGBLST material system, focusing on surface friction performance and color durability. Regarding friction performance, wet surface friction testing is required using the T 242 Full-Size Tire Test or the ASTM E1911 Dynamic Friction Tester, with specific values specified by each state.

Regarding color performance, the standard establishes strict daytime luminance (Y>15) and chromaticity coordinate requirements to ensure good visibility of green bike lanes under varying lighting conditions. Color testing is conducted in accordance with ASTM E1349, using 45/0 geometry, CIE D65 illuminant, and a 1931 CIE 2-degree observation angle. Test Methods and Quality Control Chapter 7 of the standard details the test methods for various properties, including bond strength testing (ASTM D4541), DuPont hardness testing (ASTM D2240/ASTM D7735), and elongation at break testing (M 235M/M 235/ASTM D638). All test samples must be cured at 73±2°F for 7 days to ensure the accuracy and comparability of test results. Regarding quality control, the standard requires manufacturers to provide independent laboratory reports certifying that their materials meet the technical requirements in Tables 1-3. Purchasers also have the right to request material samples from manufacturers for verification testing to ensure reliable quality.

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Material Certification and Packaging Requirements

The PP 117-231 standard establishes a comprehensive material certification system, requiring manufacturers to provide product certification documentation, including copies of test reports or manufacturer's declarations. Aggregate materials are also required to provide certification documentation from the aggregate manufacturer to ensure quality control throughout the supply chain.

Regarding packaging, the standard sets specific requirements for different material types: binder resin components must be packaged in well-sealed containers clearly labeled with the material type and mix ratio; thermoplastic systems must be labeled with application instructions; and aggregate packaging must be protected from contamination and moisture. All labels must include information such as product name, manufacturer, batch number, storage temperature range, expiration date, quantity, and safety warnings.

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Implementation Recommendations and Engineering Application

In actual engineering applications, project owners are advised to focus on the following aspects: First, select the appropriate DGBLST material system based on specific traffic flow and environmental conditions; second, strictly adhere to the manufacturer's recommended application methods and surface preparation requirements; and third, establish a comprehensive quality control system, including incoming material inspection, construction process control, and final acceptance testing.

It is particularly important to note that bond strength testing should be conducted on-site using project-specified materials and application methods. This helps assess whether the pavement has aged sufficiently, been properly prepared, and has the structural capacity to receive DGBLST. Testing should be conducted within a surface temperature range of 60°F–80°F to ensure representative testing conditions.

In terms of color durability, regular color retention evaluation is recommended, especially in areas with strong UV radiation. The UV resistance test required by the standard is conducted in accordance with ASTM G154, using exposure condition cycle 1 for 144 hours, which provides technical guarantees for the long-term color retention of the material.

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Technological Evolution and Development Trends

The release of the PP 117-231 standard marks the process of standardization and normalization of green bike lane surface treatment technology. Compared with traditional pavement marking materials, the standard emphasizes material durability, color stability, and friction performance requirements, reflecting the development of bicycle infrastructure towards safer and more durable conditions.

In the future, with the development of new material technologies, more environmentally friendly, high-performance DGBLST materials are expected to emerge. The standard's technical framework provides the foundation for the application of these new materials, but it also requires regular standard revisions to adapt to the needs of technological development.

From the perspective of urban transportation planning, the implementation of the PP 117-231 standard will promote the standardized construction of bicycle lane networks, improve cycling safety, and provide technical support for the development of green urban transportation. When adopting this standard, state transportation departments can formulate specific implementation rules based on local conditions to ensure the effective implementation of the standard's requirements.