Influence of compaction temperature on the resistance of a stabilized granular material with asphalt cement

Abstract

The influence of compaction temperature on the mechanical resistance and susceptibility to water of a bound granular material with asphalt cement (called MGEA) was evaluated in laboratory. The above, because in temperate climates or low temperature, has been reported in some road projects, lowering the temperature of compaction with respect to the laboratory optimum to 30°C. Additionally, the technical construction specifications not recommend a range of compaction temperatures for the control of this material in road projects. This generates, that these materials are compacted empirically with temperatures that may not be appropriate. Two asphalt cements (AC 60-70 and AC 80-100) were used to prepare the MGEA mixtures. The compaction temperatures used were 105, 115, 125 and 135°C. Marshall, resilient modulus, permanent deformation and indirect traction tests were performed. The decrease of the compaction temperature produces a remarkable decrease in resistance under monotonic and cyclic loading, and increases moisture damage of the MGEA mixture tested.