Results of Micro-Deval Test for Coarse Aggregates from Virginia Sources

Abstract

Aggregate is the most widely used construction material, and a key aspect of aggregate quality is durability. In this study, the Micro-Deval test was studied to evaluate its suitability for assessing the durability of coarse aggregates from Virginia sources. Results obtained with the Micro-Deval test and several commonly used aggregate tests were compared. The Micro-Deval test showed a very high potential to evaluate aggregate durability with better precision than did the conventional tests. It was able to differentiate between good- and poorly-performing aggregates at least 70% of the time and was able to identify the quality difference between similar aggregate types with varying degrees of weathering. Thus, the Micro-Deval test is recommended for use as a quality control tool for aggregate assessment to supplement the current measures of aggregate quality.