Mechanical Properties of Sandstone Cement-Stabilized Macadam

Abstract

Application of sandstone in cement-stabilized macadam (CSM) is an effective way to utilize sandstone. To determine the feasibility of using sandstone as a CSM aggregate, a series of experimental investigations, such as unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests, Brazilian splitting tests and freeze-thaw cycle tests, were conducted on sandstone cement-stabilized macadam (SCSM). Three mixed variables, covering the cement content, aggregate type and curing period, were set as influence factors. The testing results indicated that the UCS, indirect tensile strength (ITS) and frost resistance property of the test-pieces increased with cement content and curing age. Considering the asphalt pavement design specifications for China, the UCS and ITS values of the SCSM complied with the requirements of light traffic road construction before freeze-thaw cycles. However, the SCSM subjected to freezing and thawing meets the requirements only when the cement content is 4.5%. Therefore, it is noteworthy that CSM containing sandstone aggregates should be applied with caution in cold region because of insufficient freeze resistance.