What does the term "blow-up" refer to in asphalt pavement?

The term "blow-up" in asphalt pavement specifically refers to a localized area of pavement that buckles due to heat expansion. This phenomenon typically occurs during hot weather conditions when the asphalt expands significantly. If the pavement is confined and unable to accommodate this expansion, it can lead to deformations or buckling, resulting in a blow-up. This can pose safety hazards and requires immediate attention to repair.

In contrast, the other choices describe different issues related to pavement but do not accurately define a blow-up. A section of pavement that has detached completely refers to a failure or delamination rather than localized buckling. A type of joint used in asphalt layers pertains to the methods of connecting or separating different sections of asphalt, which is unrelated to the blow-up phenomenon. Lastly, an area where potholes frequently occur indicates a different type of defect caused by moisture and traffic stress, rather than heat expansion. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective pavement maintenance and management.