Effect of physical and mineralogical properties of aggregates on quality of asphalt concrete

Abstract

The major component of an asphalt matrix is rock aggregates usually consisting an amount greater than 95% by weight. One of the main reasons causing failure of asphalt paved roads during the expected service period of the pavement, is due to the shortage of the quality of aggregates being used. In the local asphalt industry, aggregates used to produce asphalt concrete, are tested and approved for the application only by evaluating physical parameters such as LAAV and AIV. In this research, mineralogical properties of aggregates have been systematically analysed along with the respective physical and asphalt properties. Testing was carried out for aggregate and lump samples collected from a number of metal quarries and asphalt plants, representing rock types from three major geological complexes; Wanni, Highland and Vijayan of Sri Lanka. Both single and multiple statistical linear regression analytical tools were adopted to analyse the relationship between mineralogical properties with physical and asphalt properties. Findings of the research proposes to consider the collective influence of both physical and mineralogical properties of aggregates when selecting competent materials for asphalt concrete manufacture.