NCAT celebrates National Asphalt Day with industry impact

Trusted by transportation agencies and industry leaders alike, the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) at Auburn University provides the research and data needed to build longer-lasting, more sustainable pavements. On Thursday, May 15, in celebration of National Asphalt Day, NCAT is spotlighting the critical role and impact it plays in shaping the future of asphalt pavement engineering.

Established by the Asphalt Institute, National Asphalt Day recognizes the innovation and people behind one of the most widely used and recycled construction materials. With 94 percent of U.S. roads paved in asphalt, the day emphasizes its durability, recyclability and role in everyday life.

For more than 35 years, NCAT has been at the forefront of asphalt research and development, helping state agencies, industry partners and communities implement safer and longer-lasting pavement solutions. The center’s work spans the entire pavement lifecycle – from materials design to field performance – ensuring that innovations are both practical and effective. NCAT’s contributions in areas such as performance testing, sustainability and professional training have helped shape modern practices and drive innovation across the industry.

Key contributions from NCAT include:

• Accelerated pavement testing at the NCAT Test Track
  The 1.7-mile Test Track allows researchers and agencies to evaluate pavement technologies and materials under real-world traffic conditions. By simulating years of wear in a controlled setting, the Track generates performance data that informs material selection, structural design and preservation strategies, supporting cost-effective roadway systems.
  
  
• Field-validated preservation strategies
  Pavement preservation studies help state DOTs implement more effective maintenance techniques that extend the lifespan of roads and reduce taxpayer costs.
  
  
• Development of safer, more accurate testing methods
  NCAT developed the ignition method for determining asphalt content, now widely adopted as a safer, more reliable alternative to solvent extraction. Numerous other test methods used on a daily basis by practitioners around the world have been refined and standardized through NCAT’s research.
  
  
• Training the industry
  NCAT provides hands-on, industry-focused training programs designed to advance knowledge and skills in asphalt pavement technologies. These courses cover the latest developments in materials, mix design, testing procedures and quality assurance practices, serving professionals across the industry.
  
  
• Preparing Auburn students for pavement careers
  NCAT prepares the next generation of pavement engineers through the Pavement and Materials Engineering Graduate Program at Auburn University, which combines academic rigor with practical application. Students in this program gain hands-on experience with NCAT researchers and faculty, access state-of-the-art laboratories and the Test Track and study various topics related to pavement design and materials testing. Graduates of this program are equipped to meet the growing demand for pavement professionals in government agencies, industry and academia.

NCAT’s work contributes more than $125 million annually to Alabama’s economy and influences positive road-building practices nationwide. The center’s focus on collaboration has brought together agencies and industry leaders to solve real-world challenges and accelerate innovation.

By conducting applied research, validating innovative technologies in the field, and investing in workforce development, NCAT advances pavement performance, reduces life-cycle costs and endeavors toward more efficient and sustainable infrastructure solutions.

To learn more about NCAT’s ongoing work, visit ncat.us.