The accuracy of filler detection at each aggregate fraction through wet sieve analysis system to reduce the risk on wearing course of asphalt mixture

Abstract

Most people do not realize that the fillers are still attached to each of grain material when they conduct the sieve analysis with the dry method. Filler is a material which passes sieve No.200 (0.074 mm). Failure to detect the number of fillers due to carelessness in performing an analysis may have a broad impact. When the detected filler is less, the contractor will add the filler to the mixture, whereas the filler is actually sufficient. It will not only add unnecessary costs, but it may have adverse effect on road pavement. If the amount of filler exceeds the upper limit of the specification, it will cause the deterioration of Void Mineral Aggregate (VMA) as well as Void in Mix (VIM). The derivative consequence is when the frequency of traffic is high and the ambient temperature is also high, then the asphalt expansions will not get enough space that lead to bleeding. It will cause a decrease in road performance, in which it will be full of bitumen and slippery. From aesthetics point of view, it looks less good-looking, while from safety point of view, the safety of traffic will decrease. This paper attempts to analyze the causes of the two types of gradation, i.e., Asphalt Concrete Wearing Course (AC-WC) for dense grade and Hot Rolled Sheet (HRS-WC) for gap grade. Wearing course was selected as the study material because it is used both on new road construction and routine maintenance. This research was commenced by sampling several sources with different abrasion values. Furthermore, the mixed design was prepared for those types of asphalt mixture using two types of the wet and the dry sieve analysis system. Specimens were made and tested by using Marshal test. The results of Marshal test of all specimens were then analyzed. To verify the findings, this research activity was continued by overlaying the materials on several road segments and observing the behavior due to traffic and changes in ambient temperature.