What is the main purpose of performing a field density test on compacted asphalt?

The main purpose of performing a field density test on compacted asphalt is to confirm that the asphalt pavement has been compacted to the specified density. Achieving the correct density is crucial because it directly affects the pavement's strength, durability, and performance over its lifespan. If the density is too low, the pavement may be susceptible to deformation, cracking, and ultimately premature failure. Conversely, if the density is too high, it can lead to issues such as increased brittleness and reduced flexibility.

Evaluating the density in the field helps ensure that the compaction process was performed correctly and meets project specifications. This test verifies the effectiveness of the compaction technique used and provides a quality control measure to guarantee that the pavement will function effectively under traffic loads.

Other options describe important aspects related to asphalt but do not encompass the primary purpose of the density test. Checking for moisture content is vital for ensuring proper mixing and preventing problems during construction, while verifying asphalt mixture proportions and assessing temperature are also essential tasks in asphalt quality control but are separate from confirming the density of the compacted material.