Overview:
The 2026 Slurry Systems Workshop focused on best practices for pavement preservation, with emphasis on chip seal and slurry seal systems. The program included classroom instruction, live demonstrations, and an industry panel discussion addressing real-world challenges, quality control, and future trends impacting slurry and chip seal operations.

Chip Seal – Key Learnings:

Chip seals remain an effective preventive maintenance treatment when applied at the correct time and under proper conditions.

• Materials:
• Polymer-modified emulsions improve aggregate retention and durability.
• Aggregate cleanliness and proper gradation are critical; dirty or damp aggregate is a leading cause of chip loss.

• Equipment & Calibration:
• Distributor calibration is essential for uniform binder application.
• Proper spray bar height, nozzle angle, and matched truck/spreader speeds reduce streaking and bleeding.
• Immediate pneumatic rolling with adequate passes ensures proper embedment.

• Common Failures:
  
  
• Aggregate loss from under-application of binder or delayed rolling.
• Bleeding caused by excessive binder rates or high surface temperatures.
• Weather timing is a major factor in success or failure.

Slurry Seal – Key Learnings:

Slurry seal is a surface treatment used to seal pavements, correct minor defects, and extend service life.

• Mix Design & Materials:
  
  
• Proper mix design testing is required prior to production.
• Aggregate gradation, emulsion selection, and additive control directly impact set time and performance.
• Daily field adjustments are necessary based on temperature and humidity.

• Equipment & Calibration:
  

• Batch and continuous machines must be calibrated regularly.
• Accurate feed rates for emulsion, aggregate, water, and additives are critical for consistency.

• Placement & Quality Control:
  
  
• Surface preparation (cleaning, crack sealing, pothole repair) is essential.
• Uniform application and adequate curing time before opening to traffic prevent failures.

Industry Panel – Key Discussion Points

The industry panel reinforced that most slurry and chip seal issues are process-related, not material-related.

• Training and crew experience directly impact job quality.
• Communication between plant, field crews, and inspectors is critical.
• Calibration, documentation, and accountability protect both contractors and agencies.
• Agencies are placing increased emphasis on quality assurance, inspection records, and safety compliance.
• Future trends include greater use of polymer-modified emulsions, improved specifications, and stronger focus on preventive maintenance programs.

Safety & Best Practices

• Strict PPE compliance during loading, spraying, and application operations.
• Proper traffic control planning is essential for public and worker safety.
• Proactive public communication improves acceptance of preservation treatments.

Conclusion

The workshop was extremely informative and beneficial, providing both technical and practical field insight. The information gained will help improve planning execution, quality control, and safety for chip seal and slurry seal operations. Overall, the training reinforced best practices that can be immediately applied to improve performance and extend pavement life.