Selection of high-quality aggregates for high-end civil engineering projects such as airport runways

Abstract

In civil engineering, aggregates normally comprise over 70% by volume in both concrete and asphalt mixes, so that the properties of aggregates mostly represent the overall properties of the mixture. Among these properties, mechanical properties such as toughness and abrasion resistance have a greater influence in construction-related projects since such properties directly affects for its durability. Therefore, it is important to assess the suitability of aggregates prior starting the construction, which can be quantitatively measured through laboratory testing. When it comes to the construction industry in Sri Lanka, finding a suitable aggregate source for high-end Civil Engineering projects have been quite difficult, due to the lack of research and interpretation of data. In this study, all the IML/A grade quarries which are located within the Kalutara District has considered. To assess the suitability, Los Angeles Abrasion Value (LAAV) test and Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) were performed on the Aggregate-Base-Course (ABC) obtained from each. With the comparison performed on the results with respect to the specifications obtained from several high-end civil engineering projects, it was concluded that there are a limited number of quarries available in Kalutara District, which can be used for high-end civil engineering projects.