Laboratory Investigation Review of Stone Matrix Asphalt

Abstract

The distress of pavements in the form of rutting as well as ultimate distortion due to heavy axle loading and the wear caused by studded tires is a serious threat. SMA as a surface mixture possesses good stability, durability and resistance to studded tires. This study aims to establish the design mix of SMA prepared using PMB 40 bitumen (polymer modified) and to investigate the properties of Stone Matrix Asphalt mixture through laboratory testing that will be helpful in understanding and describing the character of its performance. The methodology employed in the present study is the experimental method; it includes material testing, design mix and performance testing. Marshall Test has been adopted for determination of optimum binder content. This research is an endeavor for comparing the realization of characteristics of SMA mix with dense graded traditional HMA mix by conducting the laboratory
experiments intended for dense graded traditional HMA mix. The results emphasize the usage of SMA mix especially on roads carrying a large volume of traffic.