Selected aggregate properties significantly affect the behaviour of bituminous paving mixtures

This paper presents a summary of some of the findings obtained during a series of research projects aimed to select, define and evaluate the significant aggregate and filler properties, and to relate them to the behaviour of bituminous concrete. The paper discusses a new concept and test method suggested for an objective quantitative evaluation of the geometric irregularity of aggregate particles (shape, angularity and surface texture combined) in a wide range of particle sizes. The aggregate parameters were found to be significantly correlated to the physical properties and mechanical behaviour of the bituminous mixtures composed of the aggregates tested. The paper also summarizes research work and findings related to a special evaluation of important physico-chemical properties of the filler and their significant effect on the immediate properties and the long-term durability behaviour of bituminous paving mixtures.