What could be a consequence of inadequate compaction in asphalt mixing?

Inadequate compaction in asphalt mixing can lead to a variety of issues, with one of the most significant being the development of premature structural failures. When asphalt is not compacted properly, air voids remain within the mixture. These air pockets can weaken the material's integrity and reduce its load-bearing capacity, making the pavement more susceptible to deformation, cracking, and other forms of distress over time.

As these structural failures progress, they can result in increased maintenance costs and a shorter lifespan for the pavement. The presence of unbound material and the inability of the asphalt to resist traffic loads effectively leads to deterioration much earlier than expected. Therefore, adequate compaction is essential to ensure the durability and longevity of asphalt pavements.