Skid Resistance and Wear Properties of Aggregates for Paving Mixtures: Fid-Bau Portal

Skid Resistance and Wear Properties of Aggregates for Paving Mixtures

W. G. Mullen

The objectives of the research were to develop laboratory tests for pre-evaluating aggregates and paving mixtures for prediction of skid resistance properties in the field; to develop laboratory tests for onset velocity of hydroplaning related to pavement surface texture; to identify mixture designs incorporating optimum skid resistance and polish resistance; and to evaluate field installations for correlation of field and laboratory polishing exposures. These objectives have been substantially accomplished except for the one involving hydroplaning velocity. Laboratory evaluation methods developed or adapted include a circular track machine using small diameter pneumatic tires; a jar mill procedure for polishing loose aggregates; a petrographic method for evaluating polish susceptibility based on percentage of hard mineral found in aggregate thin sections; and the insoluble residue test for carbonate aggregates, now an ASTM Standard. A useable correlation was found between British Portable Tester measurements and field skid trailer measurements at 20, 30, 40, and 50 miles per hour. Different correlations were obtained for open-graded mixes and for dense-surface mixes. (Modified author abstract)