Randomized trial evaluates performance differences of microsurfacing mixtures with various aggregates, indicating the importance of chemical compatibility.
Key Points
This research aims to assess the performance differences of microsurfacing mixtures using aggregates from distinct origins and evaluate the importance of chemical compatibility with the binder.
Four aggregate sources were characterized using sand equivalent, Los Angeles abrasion, and sulfate soundness tests.
Only aggregates meeting mechanical thresholds were incorporated into microsurfacing mixtures with polymer-modified cationic asphalt emulsion.
The mixes were tested for mixing time, mechanical development, and binder-aggregate compatibility.
One aggregate source failed to achieve minimum cohesion thresholds with unstable mixing behavior.
The other aggregate demonstrated stable consistency and high binder-aggregate compatibility.
Results indicate the necessity of combining mechanical screening with chemical compatibility for optimal performance.