Evaluation on aggregate effective specific gravity as related to Marshall volumetric properties

Abstract

The volumetric properties which consist of voids in total mix (VTM), voids in the mineral aggregate (VMA) and voids filled with asphalt (VFA) of compacted hot mix asphalt (HMA) provide an indication of the potential pavement mixture performance. Usually, the voids in compacted HMA were calculated on the basis of bulk specific gravity of the aggregate assuming that there is no asphalt absorbed in the aggregate permeable pores. In the case of asphalt absorption, the use of aggregate effective specific gravity should give a more true value of voids in compacted HMA. This study was carried out to determine the voids value of compacted HMA on the basis of effective specific gravity of the aggregate. Comparisons of the voids value using both specific gravities were analysed in terms of optimum asphalt content (OAC) and volumetric properties determination. The results show that OAC, VMA, VFA and stability of the mix increase on the basis of aggregate effective specific gravity.