Influence of Oyster Shell Ash Filler on the Marshall Properties of Asphalt Concrete

Abstract

Roads are vital for the movement of people and goods, and their durability and mechanical properties depend on various factors, including the construction materials used. Marshall properties are crucial for analysis of asphaltic concrete designed for road construction, Also, filler materials improves the properties of asphaltic concrete. Therefore, this study investigated the influence of oyster shell ash (OSA) on the Marshall properties of hot mix asphalt concrete. The Marshall properties analyzed include stability, flow, void in mineral aggregate (VMA), void in the mixture (VIM), void filled with asphalt (VFA), and Marshall Quotient (MQ). The research revealed that the addition of oyster shell ash enhanced the stability and flow of asphaltic concrete. VMA and VFA increased with increase in OSA content, while increase in asphalt content resulted in a decrease in VIM and increase in VFA. The optimum performance of the Marshall’s properties was recorded at 10% OSA and 5% asphalt content. The study also showed that the OSA-filled asphaltic concrete improved the performance of the OSA-filled asphalt concrete stability and stiffness compared to the sample without OSA. Moreover, OSA enhances the stiffness of the mixture, as reflected by the Marshall Quotient. Therefore, the findings highlighted the potential of oyster shell ash as a viable and sustainable filler material in asphaltic concrete.