Asphalt Mix Design Methods Compared: Hveem, Marshall, Superpave, and BMD

Choosing the right asphalt mix design method can significantly impact pavement performance, durability, and cost. Over time, several design philosophies have emerged—each reflecting a different balance of lab testing, field experience, and performance goals. In this article, we compare the four major asphalt mix design methods: Hveem, Marshall, Superpave, and Balanced Mix Design (BMD).

Hveem Method: Stability Through Empirical Control

Developed in California in the 1920s, the Hveem Method¹ focuses on measuring stability using empirical data². It uses a device called the stabilometer³ to evaluate the resistance of compacted asphalt mixtures to lateral movement under pressure.

Key Features:

• Relies on a kneading compactor for specimen preparation.
• Evaluates stability (resistance to deformation) and cohesion.
• Ideal for dense-graded mixes in moderate climates.

Although less common today, the Hveem method remains in use in some western U.S. states for localized mix design standards.

Marshall Method: Widely Adopted Legacy Standard

The Marshall Method⁴, developed during WWII by Bruce Marshall, became the standard mix design method for many decades, especially in the U.S. and Asia. It combines volumetric analysis with a simple load/stability test.

Key Features:

• Uses an impact hammer⁵ for sample compaction.
• Measures Marshall Stability⁶ and Flow to determine optimal binder content.
• Common in airport, highway, and municipal projects.

While still widely used, it lacks direct performance evaluation, which limits its predictive accuracy in evolving climate and traffic conditions.

Superpave: Performance-Based Innovation

Introduced in the 1990s under the Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP), Superpave (SUperior PERforming Asphalt PAVEments) aims to match asphalt design to real-world conditions. It is performance-based⁷ and includes more rigorous specifications.

Key Features:

• Incorporates climate and traffic data⁸ into binder selection.
• Uses a gyratory compactor for specimen preparation.
• Measures volumetric properties like VMA, VFA, and air voids.

Superpave is the current standard for U.S. federal and state highway projects, offering greater flexibility and durability for high-performance pavements.

Balanced Mix Design (BMD): Bridging Volumetrics and Performance

Balanced Mix Design (BMD) is an emerging approach that seeks to combine traditional volumetric mix design with performance testing to create a more durable, cost-effective asphalt mixture.

Key Features:

• Incorporates both rutting and cracking performance tests.
• Uses existing Superpave or Marshall volumetrics as a baseline.
• Allows greater innovation in materials and mix design.

BMD is often viewed as the next evolution of asphalt mix design—especially as sustainability and long-term performance become central goals.

Conclusion

Each asphalt mix design method—Hveem, Marshall, Superpave, and BMD—offers unique advantages depending on your goals, resources, and project specifications. While legacy methods like Hveem and Marshall focus on simplicity and field-proven stability, Superpave introduces climate-specific design precision. BMD goes a step further, integrating lab performance testing to help engineers design longer-lasting, more resilient pavements in a cost-effective way.