Comparative analysis of lateritic and granitic aggregates in asphalt mixtures: morphological properties and performance implications

• Published in: Innovative infrastructure solutions : the official journal of the Soil-Structure Interaction Group in Egypt (SSIGE) Vol. 9; no. 5
• Main Authors: Cruz, Gabryelle Keith Avelino, Arruda, Sonaly Mendes, de Medeiros Melo Neto, Osires, de Figueiredo Lopes Lucena, Leda Christiane
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Cham Springer International Publishing 01-05-2024
• Subjects: Earth and Environmental Science; Earth Sciences; Environmental Science and Engineering; Foundations; Geoengineering; Geotechnical Engineering & Applied Earth Sciences; Hydraulics; Technical Paper; Bailey method; Granitic aggregates; Lateritic aggregates; Aggregate image measurement system; Mechanical performance
• ISSN: 2364-4176; 2364-4184
• DOI: 10.1007/s41062-024-01472-y

Aggregates play a crucial role as the structural framework of asphalt mixtures, bearing the majority of the load applied to the pavement. Therefore, it is imperative to thoroughly investigate their characteristics and properties. Understanding the morphological properties of aggregates is particularly significant when considering alternative aggregate materials in asphalt mixtures. This study focuses on a comparative analysis between lateritic and granitic aggregates, both commonly found in Brazil, as constituents of asphalt mixtures. Comprehensive characterization of these aggregates was performed using conventional tests along with the advanced aggregate image measurement system 2 (AIMS2) for imaging. The produced asphalt mixtures underwent various tests, including drainage evaluation, indirect tensile strength measurement, Marshall stability analysis, assessment of moisture susceptibility damage, and Cantabro loss examination. The research revealed that parameters such as surface texture, angularity, porosity, and absorption significantly impact the performance of asphalt mixtures. The mixtures with both evaluated aggregates exhibited values within the specified limits in the standards for each mechanical performance test. While mixtures incorporating lateritic aggregates exhibited superior performance compared to those with granitic aggregates, they demonstrated greater brittleness and sensitivity to moisture due to the inherent porosity, absorption characteristics, and susceptibility to abrasion associated with laterite. Conversely, the utilization of less brittle aggregates necessitates conventional characterization methods, which suffice to comprehend the morphological properties and develop efficient asphalt mixtures.