Evaluation of the Gradation Effect on the Dynamic Modulus

Abstract

The importance of aggregate characteristics has been emphasized in the Superpave® asphalt mixture design procedure. However, criteria for guidelines for the selection of suitable aggregate gradations–-other than gradation limits for different nominal maximum size aggregate blends, including the restricted zone–-have been neglected. With the move toward mechanistic–empirical pavement design, the dynamic modulus is used to account for mixture properties in the pavement design. It is of significant importance to mix designers to possess a framework for determining how to optimize a mixture for ensuring an adequate dynamic modulus. This paper presents the results from a study of the effects of gradation characteristics on the dynamic modulus. Power law–based gradation factors are obtained for 13 aggregate gradations (coarse and fine graded) composed of limestone and granite aggregates. These gradation factors were used to identify and evaluate relationships between gradation factors and the dynamic modulus at higher temperature (40°C). Subsequently, a tentative framework was established for optimizing mixture gradations for dynamic modulus values. Findings illustrate that gradation factors based on power law parameters can be used to optimize mixture gradations for key mixture properties, such as the dynamic modulus. Results also demonstrate the critical nature of aggregate gradation in achieving desired mixture properties.