Investigation of Stone Matrix Asphalt Mortars

Abstract

The use of stone matrix asphalt (SMA) has continued to increase in the United States since its initial application in 1991. This preference for SMA has been linked to its ability to withstand heavy traffic without rutting. The antirutting capability of SMA is normally accredited to the presence of a stone-on-stone aggregate skeleton in the mixture. However, the mortar in an SMA mixture is also important. The mortar is composed of fine aggregate, filler, asphalt cement, and a stabilizing additive. Work to characterize SMA mortars is detailed. For testing purposes, the mortar was broken into separate phases, total mortar and fine mortar. The fine mortar was tested using the Superior Performing Asphalt Pavements system (Superpave) binder tests. The total mortar was tested using the bending beam rheometer, resilient modulus, indirect tensile test, and Brookfield vis-cometer. The results indicate that the fine and total mortars are closely related. In addition, it was determined that at least some of the Superpave tests can be used to characterize SMA mortars. It is recommended that further testing be completed and specification criteria be established for the mortar.