Strength of different asphalt concrete exposed to different environments

This paper presents the results of experiments conducted, in order to assess the effects of cyclic wetting and drying; freeze-thaw and temperature changes, on the strength of asphalt concrete. The specimens considered for these studies included Marshal specimens prepared using aggregates obtained from five different sources. Marshal stability of these specimens were measured before and after the samples were exposed to different conditions. The results indicated that while the strength of different specimens may be acceptable under normal laboratory conditions, their strength tend to deteriorate considerably after being exposed to cyclic wetting and drying; cyclic freeze-thaw and temperature changes.

Keywords:

Marshal strengths , wetting and drying , freeze-thaw , temperature changes , asphalt concrete