The Asphalt Laboratory of the Materials and Tests Unit has the responsibility of the design and approval of asphalt mixes for contract projects and maintenance; testing and approval of the materials used in asphalt mixes; testing and approval of mineral fillers, asphalt truck release agents and various asphalt additives; aiding in the development of specifications, test procedure manuals and training programs; participating in research as needed by the North Carolina Department of Transportation; running support tests for field projects; and performing Independent Assurance tests on all federally funded paving projects.