Influence of the aggregate skeleton design method on the permanent deformation resistance of stone mastic asphalt

The paper discusses the results of an experimental study aimed at analysing the permanent deformation resistance of stone mastic asphalts designed by means of the conventional as well as the more rational mix design methods and made with electric arc furnace steel slags and coal ash, used in a partial substitution of the natural aggregates. The laboratory investigation concerned the characterization of the physical-mechanical properties of the marginal materials, the mix-design, based on the Bailey method, the volumetric properties and the moisture resistance of the asphalt concretes. The permanent deformation resistance of the mixes has been investigated by means of the repeated load axial and the wheel tracking tests. The results of this study indicate that the aggregate matrix could have a different and strong influence on the mechanical properties, depending on the physical characteristics and the content of the marginal components, as well as on the grading and the volumetric properties of the mix being studied. © 2014 W. S. Maney & Son Ltd.