Experimental Investigation on Stone Matrix Asphalt Mixture using Arbocel Fiber

As much as a larger portion of the assets in the highways sector are being spent on the restoration and resurfacing of the current asphalts. It is a fact that has to be accepted that conventional bituminous mixtures proves obsolete to the heavy loading conditions and climatic varieties. It is the time that we pick a predominant plan of bituminous mixes. Almost $ 150 billion is being invested in highway and transportation segment from Indian government by the year 2019. As dependable natives, it is our obligation to use this mammoth reserve in the most productive way. The Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA) mixture is a hot blend asphalt, developed in Germany in the mid-1960. It is a gap graded asphalt mixture which is intended with expanding deformity (rutting) resistance and durability by using the structural premise of stone-on-stone contact. Also which is characterized by high coarse aggregates and fine particles, high binder content and fiber additives as stabilizers. It has low air voids with a higher level of macro texture laid resulting in waterproofing with good drainage surface. The present work focuses on assessing the properties of Stone Matrix Asphalt Mix and also the effect of the addition of fibers. The objectives of the study to obtain a desired gradation as per specification given by IRC SP 79 2008 by using locally available aggregates and other materials, to determine the optimum binder content and optimum fibre content by varying binder content 5.8 %, 6 %, 6.2 %, 6.4 % and 6.6 %, fibre content 0.30 %, 0.35 %, and 0.40 % by total weight of aggregates. In this study, PMB-40 grade is used as the binder and hydrated lime is used as filler and Arbocel as fiber. From Marshall Stability test results, it is observed that the 0.30 % of addition fiber optimum dosage. The drain down test done for optimum fiber content and binder content, in order to assure that binder drain off does not exceed 0.30 %. Further the performance evaluation, the mix was evaluated by conducting Indirect Tensile Strength Test, and Rutting characteristics without and with the addition of optimum fiber content. The results showed that the SMA Mix has better resistance with optimum dosage than the conventional SMA.