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.
