Revised 2008, WKS

Datasheets No. 24, 25, 26 & 27

MOHAWK COLLEGE OF APPLIED ARTS AND TECHNOLOGY

BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION SCIENCES DEPARTMENT

Marshall Method of Asphalt Concrete Mix Design

INTRODUCTION
This procedure was originally developed by a bituminous engineer with the
Mississippi State Highway Department, Bruce Marshall. The U. S. Army Corps. of
Engineers improved and added to the procedure as well as developing mix design
criteria. The method documented in ASTM D 1559 and AASHTO T245 is
applicable only to mixes with maximum particle sizes of 25 mm (1) or less. The
method can be used for both laboratory design and field control.
An asphalt mix design consists of two basic issues:
a) based on the gradations of the constituent aggregates to be used in the mix,
determine the proportions of each aggregate that will produce a blended
gradation that meets the required grading specification (we will use the
grading spec. given in the sieve analysis lab, which is for HL3 from the OPSS
Spec.).
b) determine the optimum asphalt cement content that will satisfy the Asphalt
Institutes mix design criteria (we will consider the bulk specific, the
Marshall Stability and the percent air voids in the compacted paving mixture
in determining the optimum asphalt content).
In addition to the gradation of the constituent aggregates, it is also necessary to
know the bulk ASTM specific gravities of the coarse and fine aggregates, the
apparent specific gravity of the mineral filler and the specific gravity of the
asphalt cement in order to be able to determine the percent air voids, voids in the
mineral aggregate (VMA), voids filled with asphalt (VFA) and the effective asphalt
content.
This lab is organized into five segments (a d in the lab):
a) sieving and blending of stock aggregates into twenty-two 1200 gram
1

batches using the proportions determined to produce the required

grading,
b) manufacturing 18 compacted test specimens (3 trials at 6 different
asphalt contents) and two loose specimens,
c) measuring and calculating the bulk specific gravity of each compacted
specimen and the maximum specific gravity of the loose specimens,
d) measuring the Marshall Stability and Flow of each preheated, compacted
specimen and
e) performing all the necessary calculations, plotting the required graphs,
determining the optimum asphalt content and evaluating the mix
properties according to the Asphalt Institutes and Ontario Provincial
Standards criteria.

PART A:

PREPARATION OF AGGREGATE BATCHES

EQUIPMENT
1. balance sensitive to 0.1 gram
2. Gilson Shaker: #4 and #8 screens and pan (the #4 and #8 U.S. Standard sieves
and pans may also be required)
3. scoops, spoons, spatulas
4. batch pans (with workstation numbers labelled on sides)
5. three plastic pails for sieved stock aggregate
6. one loaf tin for total mineral filler requirement

PROCEDURE
1. In the week prior to this lab session, use a trial and error approach on the
computer to arrive at a blend (proportions) of the coarse and fine aggregates and
mineral filler that produces a gradation curve that is as close to the midpoints
between the upper and lower limits of the grading spec as possible. The gradations
evaluated in the sieve analysis lab will be used to arrive at these proportions. These
blends should have been submitted to the instructor as an interim report prior to
this lab.
2. It is estimated that a total of 32 kg of aggregate would have to be sieved in
order to produce enough stock to produce twenty-two 1200 gram batches of
aggregate.

The mineral filler is NOT to be sieved but weighed out directly into the 22
batch tins.
The coarse and fine aggregate are sieved on the Gilson shaker in two halves: the
blending chart produced by the computer spreadsheet gives the amounts of each
type of aggregate to sieve to produce 32 kg of the blend. These weights should be
halved (and the mineral filler excluded) so as not to blind either of the screens.

For example, if the chart calls for 16.32 kg of coarse (CA) and 14.40 kg of fine (FA)
aggregate, weigh out 8.16 kg of CA and 7.20 kg of FA, place in the Gilson and sieve
on the #4 and #8 screens for 5 minutes. Then empty the material retained on the
screens and pan into the 3 stock pails. Then sieve another 8.16 kg of CA and 7.20
kg of FA as before, emptying the different sized material into their respective
stock pails.
3. Using the batch masses given in the last column of the blending chart produced
by the computer spreadsheet, weigh out the required amounts of each stock
material and place in each of the 22 batch tins in the following order:
First: mineral filler
Second: Gilson pan stock
Third: Gilson #8 stock
Lastly: Gilson #4 stock
4. Since the tins will be nested for storage and preheating, this ensures that the
material that would be most likely to be picked up by a nested tin is furthest away
from the top of the aggregate.
If one size of sieved stock runs out before all the batches are produced, the #4
and #8 U.S. Standard sieves and pans can be used to sieve small amounts rather
than waiting for the Gilson. If, for example, it is estimated that one more kilogram
of mixed aggregate would suffice, then, based on the previous example proportions,
16.32/32 or 0.51 kg of CA and 14.40/32 or 0.45 kg of FA should be sieved on the
#4 and #8 sieves and pan.
5. When all 22 batches have been weighed out they should be nested (stacked) in
fours or fives (based on the shelf space available) and then stored on the shelf
designated for your group.
6. Using the bulk specific gravities posted by the instructor for the coarse and fine
aggregates and the mineral filler, apply the proportions used to blend the aggregate
to calculate the bulk specific gravity of the blended aggregate, Gsb on Datasheet
25. Also enter the specific gravity of the asphalt to be used in the subsequent mix
calculations.

PART B:

MANUFACTURING TEST SPECIMENS

EQUIPMENT
1. asphalt kettle and balance sensitive to 0.1 gram
2. mechanical mixer and metal mixing bowl
3. large mixing spoon and spatula
4. hot water bath and 2 sets of compaction mould assemblies (base, mould, collar)
6. compaction hammer and hot plate
7. compaction pedestal and mould holder
8. vinyl gloves and padded oven gloves
9. paper filter disks and keel (coloured wax crayon)
10. cold water bath (pail with snow/ice in water)
11. arbour press
12. large loose mix trays (2)

COMPACTED SPECIMEN PROCEDURE

1. Before arriving for this lab session, each group should have calculated the mass of
asphalt cement that should be added to each 1200 gram batch of aggregate to
produce a mix with the desired percent asphalt content. Three trial specimens
(A, B and C) will be produced at each of the following asphalt contents: 4.5%,
5.0%, 5.5%, 6.0%, 6.5% and 7.0%. Two loose mixtures will be produced at 5.0%
and 6.0% for determinations of the maximum specific gravity, Gmm. The asphalt
content for this lab is based on the mass of the total mix.
If the mass of aggregates, Msb in each batch is 1200 grams, the mass of the
asphalt, Mb would be calculated as follows for the 4.5% case:

0.045 =

Mb
1200 + Mb

0.045 1200 + 0.045Mb = Mb

54.0 = 0.955Mb

Mb =

54.0
= 56.4
0.955

2. The batches of aggregate mixed in the preceding session should have been heated
in the ovens to a temperature between 177 and 190 C prior to your arrival. The
asphalt in the kettle should be between 121 and 138 C. The procedure described
hereafter is repeated for each specimen. Efficiency is of the essence as the mix
must be at or above a temperature of 107 C when the mix is compacted. There is
no time to stand around discussing the weekends exploits! Each member of the
group should be assigned a task and be aware of the sequence of activities. This
means every participant should be familiar with these procedures BEFORE entering
the lab to perform them!
3. The mixing bowls must be kept in the oven when not in use. Similarly, the mould
assemblies should be kept in the water bath until required and returned
immediately after use and the compaction hammers must also be kept on the hot
plate when not in use. Everything that comes into contact with the asphalt mix
must be kept above the compaction temperature of 107 C. If the mix drops below
this temperature before compaction, the mix must be discarded.
4. The contents of an aggregate tin are placed in a mixing bowl and stirred
thoroughly, placed on the balance or scale, a crater is formed in the centre of the
aggregate and the balance (scale) is tared (set to 0).
5. The required weight of asphalt cement is added from the kettle. To avoid adding
too much, use a piece of heavy paper to intercept the asphalt cement stream when
the required weight is displayed. Since the stream can be controlled by a valve,
start to close the valve when the weight is within a couple of grams. If too much is
added, remove some by dipping the paper into the crater where the majority of the
asphalt cement has collected being careful not to remove any aggregate.
6. Quickly mix on the mechanical mixer until the asphalt cement is uniformly
distributed (no light coloured material, i.e., uncoated aggregate).
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7. When the mixing is almost complete, one member of the group wearing the vinyl
gloves should remove and assemble a mould assembly on the bench top. A filter
paper disk should be placed in the mould before spooning the mix into the mould.
Spade the mixture vigorously 15 times around the perimeter and 10 times over the
interior. This moves the coarser material to the inside and the fines to the outside
to ensure a better shaped specimen. Remove the collar and smooth the top to a
slightly rounded shape.
Place another disk of filter paper on top, replace the collar and quickly insert the
mould assembly into the holding frame on the compaction pedestal.
8. Apply 50 blows with the compaction hammer, keeping the face of the hammer
parallel to the base plate. This can only be done by holding the hammer vertically,
so someone in the group should observe and ensure that this happens. The hand
that lifts the weight on the hammer should have a protective mitt (not a vinyl glove)
just in case that hand reaches the bottom of the hammer before the weight does.
This does happen, quite a lot actually.
9. Remove the collar, invert the mould on the base, replace the collar and apply
another 50 blows with the hammer. The hammer should be set on the hot plate
while the mould is being inverted.
10. Remove the collar and base, remove the filter paper from the specimen and place
the mould and specimen in the cold water bath until it is firm enough to be
extruded, without distortion, in the arbour press. This is usually when it feels
warm (not hot) while being held in your unprotected hands.
11. After extrusion in the arbour press, record the group number, asphalt content
and trial (e.g., 8-4.5B would be group eights second (B) trial at an asphalt content
of 4.5%) on the side of each specimen. This is done using the piece of yellow or red
keel supplied. As the specimen will still be a bit warm, this identification will
probably fade as the specimen cools. This ID should be touched up again before
storing.
The three trials for each asphalt content should be stacked and stored in the
designated shelf for your group once completed and cooled. It is recommended to
start with 4.5% AC and complete all three trial specimens (A, B and C) before going
on to 5.0% and so on. One member of the group should be in charge of keeping
7

track of the specimens to avoid unnecessary repetition (doing four trials for one
asphalt content instead of just three).
13. Dont even think of leaving until all the utensils, mixing bowls, mould assemblies,
asphalt decanting areas and water baths have been cleaned (Varsol is used to
remove asphalt from utensils). The cleanup should only take about half and hour if
everyone pitches in and helps.

LOOSE MIXTURE PROCEDURE

1. After preparing the 3 compacted specimens at 5.0% asphalt, prepare one more
mixture at 5.0%. Instead of following the compaction procedure, however, this mix
should be spooned directly out of the mixing bowl onto a special metal tray so as to
cover the entire surface in the thinnest layer possible.
2. As the mix cools, it must be split and separated frequently to minimize the size of
individual clumps of the mix using a spatula. Ideally, no particles larger than a lima
bean should be left in the specimen by the time it has cooled to room temperature.
3. This procedure must also be repeated after the 6.0% specimens are compacted
for an asphalt content of 6.0%.
4. After all the compacted specimens have been produced, they are to be stacked
and placed in a cupboard as directed by the instructor. The two trays of loose
mixes should be placed in the same cupboard on top on the compacted specimen
stacks and properly labelled (group number and asphalt content).

PART C:

SPECIFIC GRAVITIES OF MIXES

BULK SPECIFIC GRAVITY EQUIPMENT

1. balance sensitive to 0.1 gram at a weigh-in-water station
2. absorbent towels/paper towels

BULK SPECIFIC GRAVITY PROCEDURE

1. Weigh all 18 specimens in air to 0.1 gram. Record the mass as Mmb on the master
datasheet and on datasheet 26.
2. After all Mmbs have been recorded, each specimen will be weighed in water and
then immediately patted surface dry and reweighed in air according to the
following steps:
a) Suspend the basket from the hook under the scale ensuring that the mesh
is submerged in the water. When stable, set zero on the scale.
b) Hold the specimen in the water inside the basket and shake with flicks of
the wrist to loosen all bubbles of air that might be attached.
c) Set the specimen onto the bottom of the basket ON ITS SIDE (not the flat
top or bottom), wait until the reading stabilizes and record the mass as Mmbw on
the master datasheet and on datasheet 26. According to the MTO, the
specimen should be submerged for no less than 3 minutes and no more than 5
minutes prior to obtaining the reading.
d) The specimen should immediately be removed from the water and the surface
patted dry using absorbent towels or paper towels. The specimen should then be
weighed in air again (reset scale to zero prior to weighing) and the reading
recorded as Mmssd on the master datasheet and on datasheet 26.
e) This procedure is repeated for all specimens, taring the scale to zero with
the empty suspended bucket submerged in the water as in a) EVERY TIME.
3. Calculate the bulk specific gravity, Gmb of each specimen and record on datasheet
26.
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4. Check the Gmb values for outliers within each asphalt content. Datasheet 25
should be completed before arriving at this lab as the maximum possible Gmm
values for each asphalt content are recorded thereon and these provide a check
as they should be significantly higher than the Gmb values determined. If any
individual Gmb within one asphalt content group differs from the group average by
more than 0.015, the Gmbs must be verified by recalculation and if correct, then
each specimen within the group must be reweighed. If the specimen Gmb remains
more than 0.015 from the mean then the group mean Gmb must exclude this value.
If the specimens have been manufactured consistently and weighed correctly, the
Gmb values should agree reasonably well within each asphalt content.
5. At this point in the process it is possible (and recommended) to determine the
VMA of each specimen using the average specific gravity of the aggregate, Gsb
calculated on datasheet 25.

MAXIMUM SPECIFIC GRAVITY EQUIPMENT

1. balance sensitive to 0.1 gram at a weigh-in-water station
2. pycnometer (Mason jar)
3. vacuum apparatus
4. spatula

MAXIMUM SPECIFIC GRAVITY PROCEDURE

Forward: The maximum specific gravity of the voidless volume (uncompacted) of an asphalt
mix is required to determine the percent asphalt absorbed by the aggregate and the percent
air voids in the mix. This test is also known as Rices test, named after its developer, James
Rice.

1. Take the 5% AC loose mix on the tray stored in the cupboard in Part B and
loosen any particles adhering to the tray and to each other. If there are any
significant sized chunks of mix make one last attempt to reduce them to the
required size.
2. Tare the scale to zero with the hanging basket submerged in the water barrel.
10

3. Place the clean and empty pycnometer in the basket and wipe the inside and
outside of the pycnometer while it is submerged to remove any air bubbles.
4. After the reading stabilizes, determine the mass of the pycnometer in water to
0.1 gram and record it on the master datasheet and on datasheet 26 as Mpw.
5. Remove the pycnometer and dry it off, making sure it is clean and dry (inside
and out).
6. Tare the pycnometer to zero at the weigh station, then, carefully pour the loose
mix into the pycnometer until a mass of about 1000 grams is collected. Read
this mass to the nearest 0.1 gram and record it on the master datasheet and on
datasheet 26 as Mmm.
7. Carefully insert the pycnometer into the water barrel and admit enough water
to cover the entire sample of loose mix (about full) and then remove and dry
the outside of the pycnometer.
8. Attach a lid with vacuum hose to the pycnometer and vacuum for 15 2 minutes.
Agitate the pycnometer vigorously every 2 minutes.
9. After vacuuming out the air from the sample and removing the vacuum lid,
tare the scale to zero again with the hanging basket submerged in the water
barrel, carefully immerse the pycnometer in the water barrel as before and
set it into the submerged basket, taking care to wipe any bubbles from the jar
surface without touching the sample.
10. After the reading stabilizes, determine the mass of the pycnometer and sample
in water to 0.1 gram and record it on the master datasheet and on datasheet 26
as Mpws.
11. The maximum specific gravity, Gmm should be determined IMMEDIATELY
(before doing anything else). If the Gmm value obtained is less than any of the
Gmb values at that asphalt content or greater than the maximum possible Gmm
value tabulated at that asphalt content on Datasheet 25, then something is
wrong and another trial to determine Gmm will have to be made in Part D. The
Gmm should decrease as asphalt content increases. This fact should also be used
to rationalize the validity of Gmm values determined.
11

PART D:

MARSHALL TEST AND MAXIMUM SPECIFIC

GRAVITY

MARSHALL TEST EQUIPMENT

1. Compression testing machine
2. Marshall Stability heads
3. two to four brownie tins
4. hot water bath and vinyl gloves
5. flow strain gauge

MARSHALL TEST PROCEDURE

1. With two compression machines for 4 groups it is more practical to have each
group test all its specimens on a machine rather than alternate use. The critical
factor is that the specimens must be immersed in the hot water bath at 60 C for
30 to 40 minutes before they are tested for stability and flow. A schedule for
testing will be developed and posted prior to the lab session.
2. Before starting and as required, clean the inside faces of the testing head and
lubricate the guide rods with a thin film of oil to allow the upper head to slide
freely without binding. The Flow strain gauge should be zeroed by inserting the 102
mm cylinder into the testing head.
3. Remove a specimen from the hot water bath, quickly dry the surface with a rag or
paper towel, place it (centred) in the lower testing head, fit the upper head in place
and centre the heads in the testing machine.
4. The loading rate is 51 mm (2) per minute. Start the machine and load until failure
occurs. It is necessary to anticipate the point at which the dial load starts to
decrease in order to stop the machine and obtain an accurate reading of the strain
(flow) dial. Record both the load dial and strain dial readings. No more than 30
seconds should elapse from the time the specimen is removed from the water bath
until failure occurs.

12

5. The Marshall Stability is the load in Newtons at which the specimen failed,
adjusted, if necessary, for the volume of the specimen. The load ring constant on
the Marshall tester is multiplied by the recorded load dial reading to produce the
Marshall Stability in Newtons. The load at failure in Newtons on the Versatester
can be read directly from the machine dial.
6. The Marshall flow is the deformation (change in diameter) of the specimen at the
time of failure. To obtain this reading, someone in the group must be watching the
strain dial and noting the reading when failure occurs. The person following the
load dial should say Now when the maximum load (failure) is reached. The
Marshall Flow is recorded in hundredths of an inch.
If the strain dial reading, for example, is noted as 22 units on a strain gauge with
100 divisions, each representing 0.01 of deformation, the Marshall Flow number is
22, whereas if each division represents 0.001 of deformation, the Flow number is
2.2.
If one full revolution of the strain dial divided into 100 divisions represents 1 mm
of deformation (i.e., each division represents 0.01 mm) and the reading at failure
was 559 units (five full revolutions and a final reading of 59), then the Marshall
Flow is 559/25.4 = 22.
On the face of each strain gauge the value of each division (1 div. = 0.01 or 0.01
mm) is printed. This should be noted before starting the testing so that the
proper units can be recorded for flow.
7. Each trial specimen (A, B and C) for the first two sets of asphalt content (5.0%
and 6.0%) should be saved in brownie tins (the three 5.0% AC specimens in one
and the three 6.0% AC specimens in the other). The member(s) designated to
perform the Maximum Specific Gravity, Gmm determinations (if necessary) should
begin their tasks as soon as the first specimens (5.0% AC ) become available. Since
the Gmm tests are not always successful, it might be wise to also save the 5.5% and
maybe even the 6.5 % specimens as well (just in case). These should be labelled
with the asphalt content on a piece of paper for identification because the
specimens look pretty much the same after testing. If Gmm values were

successfully obtained in Part C for 5% and 6% AC then this step can be

ignored along with the procedure described below.

13

MAXIMUM SPECIFIC GRAVITY EQUIPMENT

1. pycnometer (Mason jar)
2. mixing tray, trowels
3. balance sensitive to 0.1 gram at weigh-in-water station
4. vacuum apparatus

MAXIMUM SPECIFIC GRAVITY PROCEDURE

Forward:
This procedure is performed at this time only in the event of failure to
produce reasonable results for either or both asphalt contents in Part C.

1. As soon as the specimens for the required %AC have been tested in the Marshall
Stability test, they should be broken apart in a mixing tray using trowels and by
hand. The specimens should be broken into particles no larger that a lima bean.
By quartering in the mixing tray, obtain a sample of between 900-1000 grams (3 x
(1200 + 63) /4 = 947).
2. Tare the scale to zero with the hanging basket submerged in the water barrel.
3. Place the clean and empty pycnometer in the basket and wipe the inside and
outside of the pycnometer while it is submerged to remove any air bubbles.
4. After the reading stabilizes, determine the mass of the pycnometer in water to
0.1 gram and record it on the master datasheet and on datasheet 26 as Mpw.
5. Remove the pycnometer and dry it off, making sure it is clean and dry (inside and
out).
6. Tare the pycnometer to zero at the weigh station, then, carefully pour the loose
mix into the pycnometer until a mass of about 900-1000 grams is collected. Read
this mass to the nearest 0.1 gram and record it on the master datasheet and on
datasheet 26 as Mmm.

14

7. Carefully insert the pycnometer into the water barrel and admit enough water to
cover the entire sample of loose mix (about full) and then remove and dry the
outside of the pycnometer.
8. Attach a lid with vacuum hose to the pycnometer and vacuum for 15 2 minutes.
Agitate the pycnometer vigorously every 2 minutes.
9. After vacuuming out the air from the sample and removing the vacuum lid, tare
the scale to zero again with the hanging basket submerged in the water barrel,
carefully immerse the pycnometer in the water barrel as before and set it into
the submerged basket, taking care to wipe any bubbles from the jar surface
without touching the sample.
10. After the reading stabilizes, determine the mass of the pycnometer and sample in
water to 0.1 gram and record it on the master datasheet and on datasheet 26 as
Mpws.
11. If the Gmm value obtained is less than any of the Gmb values at that asphalt
content or greater than the maximum possible Gmm value tabulated at that asphalt
content on Datasheet 25, then something is wrong.
At this point, since nothing has been discarded, the Gmm test could be repeated,
repeated with a different quarter of the sample or that asphalt content could be
abandoned in favour of another asphalt content (e.g., 5.5% or 6.5 %).
The Gmm should decrease as asphalt content increases. This fact should also be
used to rationalize the validity of Gmm values determined.

15

PART E:
I.

CALCULATIONS AND MIX EVALUATION

DATASHEET 24

This datasheet summarizes the sieving results from lab 1 and the blended
gradations, including the evaluation of grading using U.S.C. criteria and the Nominal
Maximum Particle Size as defined by the Asphalt Institute and by O.P.S.

II.

DATASHEET 25

The purpose of this datasheet is to determine the bulk specific gravity and
absorption capacity of the blended aggregate, Gsb and to document the specific
gravity of the asphalt cement, Gb. THREE DECIMAL PLACES are required for all
specific gravity values. Rounding to lower precision will result in errors in the mix
calculations.

Average Bulk Specific Gravity of Blended Aggregate

It is important to bear in mind that specific gravity, G, is the density of the
material divided by the density of water and as such there are no units. Since the
density of water is 1 g/cm3, then the specific gravities are essentially the mass in
grams divided by the volume in cm3. If the percentages of each mineral stock are
designated PCA, PFA and PMF, then these would also be the masses of each type of
mineral stock for 100 grams of blended aggregate.
The bulk volume of coarse aggregate, VBAb would then be:
VCAb =

PCA
GCAb

The bulk volume of fine aggregate, VFAb would be:

VFAb =

PFA
GFAb

16

Assuming that mineral filler has an absorption capacity of approximately 0%,

the bulk specific gravity would equal the apparent specific gravity and the bulk
volume of mineral filler, VMFb would be:
VMFb =

PMF
GMFb

The total bulk volume of blended aggregate, Vsb would then be:
Vsb =

P
P
PCA
+ FA + MF
GCAb GFAb GMFb

Given that PCA + PFA + PMF = 100 grams, the bulk specific gravity of the blended
aggregate, Gsb would then be:
PCA + PFA + PMF
Gsb =
P
P
PCA
+ FA + MF
GCAb GFAb GMFb
where

GCAb = bulk specific gravity of the coarse aggregate

GFAb = bulk specific gravity of the fine aggregate
GMFb = bulk specific gravity of the mineral filler

Whether the percentages of aggregates are given in terms of total aggregate

or total mix, this equation is valid in both cases.

Average Absorption Capacity of Blended Aggregate

In estimating the absorption capacity of the blended aggregate, it is assumed
that the mineral filler, being such a fine material, will not absorb a significant amount
of water or asphalt cement. Therefore, only the absorption capacities of the coarse
and fine aggregates are required. The average absorption capacity of the blended
aggregate is estimated using the following formulation:
ABSsb =
where

PFA ABSFA + PCA ABSCA

PFA + PCA

ABSsb = percent absorption capacity of blended aggregate

ABSFA = percent absorption capacity of fine aggregate
17

ABSCA = percent absorption capacity of coarse aggregate

PFA = percent of total aggregate mass composed of fine aggregate
PCA = percent of total aggregate mass composed of coarse aggregate

Apparent Specific Gravity of Aggregate Blend, Gsa

Although not used directly in the calculations, the estimated apparent specific
gravity of the blended aggregate provides and upper limit for the effective specific
gravity of the blended aggregate. The bulk specific gravity of the blended
aggregate, Gsa would then be:
PCA + PFA + PMF
Gsa =
P
P
PCA
+ FA + MF
GCAa GFAa GMFa
where
GCAa = apparent specific gravity of the coarse aggregate
GFAa = apparent specific gravity of the fine aggregate
GMFa = apparent specific gravity of the mineral filler

Maximum Possible Asphalt Absorbed by Blended Aggregate, Pbamax

If the apparent specific gravity is used as an upper limit for the effective
specific gravity of the blended aggregate, the an upper limit can also be set on the

rate at which the blended aggregate can absorb asphalt, Pbamax, which is estimated
using the following formulation:
1
1

Pbamax = Gb

G
G
sa
sb
where

Gb = apparent specific gravity of asphalt cement

Max. Possible Gmm for Aggregate Blend, Pbamax

The most critical test performed in this lab is the determination of the
maximum specific gravity (Rices Test) at two different asphalt contents. From
these values the percent asphalt absorption and air voids are determined for all
asphalt contents. If either or both of these values measured are in error, all the
remaining calculations for the lab are compromised. These can be calculated for each
asphalt content being used prior to and as a check on Rices Test using the following
equation:
1
Gmm max =
Pb (1 Pb )
+
Gb
Gsa
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III.

DATASHEET 26

Bulk Specific Gravity of Compacted Mix, Gmb

1. The volume of the compacted mix, Vmb is determined using Archimedes Principle
(an objects volume is the equal to the volume of water that it displaces):
Vmb = Mmssd Mmbw
where

Vmb = bulk volume of the specimen (cm3)

Mmssd = SSD mass of the specimen in air (grams)
Mmbw = mass of the specimen in water (grams)

2. The bulk specific gravity of the compacted mix, Gmb is calculated as follows:
Gmb =
where

Mmb
Vmb w

Gmb = bulk specific gravity of compacted mix

Mmb = mass of the specimen in air (grams)
Vmb = bulk volume of the specimen (cm3)
w = the density of water (g/cm3)

Percent Voids in the Mineral Aggregate, VMA

1. The mass of asphalt in each specimen, Mb is calculated as follows:
Mb = Pb Mmb
where
Mb = mass of asphalt cement in the specimen (grams)
Pb = percent asphalt content (grams of asphalt cement per gram of total mix)
Mmb = mass of the specimen in air (grams)
2. The mass of aggregate in each specimen, Msb is calculated as follows:

19

Msb = Mmb Mb
where
Msb = mass of aggregate in the specimen (grams)
Mmb = mass of the specimen in air (grams)
Mb = mass of asphalt cement in the specimen (grams)
3. The volume of asphalt cement in each specimen, Vb is calculated as follows:
Vb =
where

Mb
Gb w

Vb = volume of asphalt cement in each specimen (cm3)

Mb = mass of asphalt cement in the specimen (grams)
Gb = specific gravity of the asphalt cement used in the mix
w = the density of water = 1.0 g/cm3

4. The volume of mineral aggregate in each specimen, Vsb is calculated as follows:

Vsb =
where

Msb
Gsb w

Vsb = volume of mineral aggregate in each specimen (cm3)

Msb = mass of mineral aggregate in the specimen (grams)
Gsb = bulk specific gravity of the blended mineral aggregate in the mix
w = the density of water = 1.0 g/cm3

5. The volume of voids in the mineral aggregate, Vvma is calculated as follows:

Vvma = Vmb Vsb
where

Vvma = volume of voids in the mineral aggregate (cm3)

Vmb = bulk volume of the specimen (cm3)
Vsb = volume of mineral aggregate in each specimen (cm3)

6. The percent voids in the mineral aggregate, VMA is based on the bulk volume, Vmb:
VMA =
where

Vvma
100%
Vmb

VMA = voids in the mineral aggregate in each specimen (% of bulk volume)

20

Vvma = volume of voids in the mineral aggregate (cm3)

Vmb = bulk volume of the specimen (cm3)

Marshall Stability and Flow

1. The flow, which is the vertical deformation of the specimen when failure occurs,
is measured in the standard units of hundredths on an inch. If a specimen fails at a
deformation of 0.25 inches (a quarter of an inch), the flow value reported would be
25.0.
2. If the deformation were measured in millimetres and found to be 6.35 mm at
failure, the flow would be reported as 6.35/0.254 or 25.0.
3. The standard dimensions of the Marshall specimens are 4 inches (101.6 mm) in
diameter and 2 inches (63.5 mm) in thickness. This would produce a standard bulk
volume of 31.416 cubic inches or 514.815 cm3.
Since the strength of the specimen is affected by its thickness and hence its
volume, a correction must be made to the load at failure in Newtons to account for
deviations from the standard specimen dimensions. By carefully comparing the
strength of many test specimens to their dimensions, the Asphalt Institute produced
a table of Correlation Ratios used to correct the measured load at failure or
Marshall Stability into an Adjusted Marshall Stability.
By comparing the bulk volume, Vmb of each specimen in cm3 to the ranges in Table
3.01 in subsection 2.3.2a of the course notes on the instructors website, the
appropriate correlation ratio can be determined for each specimen. Since Vmb is
determined to 0.1 cm3, there should be no ambiguity as to the tabulated range to use.
If, for example, the Vmb for a specimen were measured as 543.6 cm3, this falls in
the range of 536 to 546 cm3 for which a correlation ratio, CR of 0.93 is tabulated.
If the Marshall Stability for this specimen was measured at 5600 N then the
adjusted Marshall Stability would be determined as follows:
Stability'= 5600 0.93 = 5208N
If the Vmb for a specimen is greater than 625 cm3 (the highest of Table 3.01), the
instructor should be consulted to extrapolate a CR value using an equation based on
the data in Table 3.01.

21

Maximum Specific Gravity, Gmm

1. For two of the six asphalt contents, (5.0% and 6.0% is desired) a maximum
specific gravity, Gmm measurement is made on the uncompacted, loose or voidless mix.
The maximum specific gravity, Gmm at any asphalt content should always be higher
than any of the bulk specific gravities, Gmb for that asphalt content since the bulk
specimens had air voids in them which would make the bulk specimens less dense than
the uncompacted mix. The maximum specific gravity is calculated as shown:
Gmm =

Mmm
Mmm + Mpw Mpws

where
Gmm = maximum specific gravity of the voidless mix
Mmm = mass of loose mix sample (grams)
Mpw = mass of the pycnometer and basket in water (grams)
Mpws = mass of pycnometer + sample + basket in water (grams)

22

Percent Air Voids, Pa

A. For Asphalt Contents where Gmm has been Determined
For two asphalt contents (5.0% and 6.0% are desirable but not essential) Gmm
will have been determined. For these cases the determination of Percent air voids, Pa
is relatively simple. To save testing time for the remaining asphalt contents the
percent air voids, Pa can be determined based on the average effective specific
gravity, Gse of the aggregate.
1. First, find the volume of the voidless mix, Vmm as shown:
Vmm =

Mmb
Gmm w

where
Vmm = volume of the voidless mix (cm3)
Mmb = mass of the specimen in air (grams)
Gmm = maximum specific gravity of the voidless mix
w = the density of water (g/cm3)
2. The effective volume of the mineral aggregate, Vse is calculated as follows:
Vse = Vmm Vb
where
Vse = effective volume of the mineral aggregate (cm3)
Vmm = volume of the voidless mix (cm3)
Vb = volume of asphalt cement in each specimen from step 3 in VMA calc. (cm3)
3. The volume of air in the compacted mix, Va is then found:
Va = Vmb Vmm
where
Va = volume of air in the compacted mix (cm3)
Vmm = volume of the voidless mix (cm3)
Vmb = bulk volume of the specimen (cm3)

23

4. The volume of asphalt absorbed by the aggregate, Vba is found as follows:

Vba = Vb + Vsb Vmm
where
Vba = volume of asphalt absorbed by aggregate in the compacted mix (cm3)
Vb = volume of asphalt cement in each specimen from step 3 in VMA calc. (cm3)
Vsb = volume of mineral aggregate in each specimen (cm3)
Vmm = volume of the voidless mix (cm3)
5. The mass of asphalt absorbed by the aggregate, Mba is found as follows:
Mba = Vba Gb w
where
Mba = mass of asphalt absorbed by aggregate in the compacted mix (grams)
Vba = volume of asphalt absorbed by aggregate in the compacted mix (cm3)
Gb = specific gravity of the asphalt cement used in the mix
w = the density of water = 1.0 g/cm3
6. The percent asphalt absorbed by the aggregate, Pba is then determined:
Pba =

Mba
100%
Msb

where
Pba = percent asphalt absorbed by the aggregate in the mix
Mba = mass of asphalt absorbed by aggregate in the compacted mix (grams)
Msb = mass of mineral aggregate in the specimen (grams)
7. The effective specific gravity of the aggregate, Gse is then found as follows:
Gse =

Msb
Vse w

where
Gse = effective specific gravity of the blended mineral aggregate in the mix
Msb = mass of mineral aggregate in the specimen (grams)
Vse = effective volume of the mineral aggregate (cm3)
w = the density of water = 1.0 g/cm3

24

8. The percent air voids, Pa in the compacted mix is then calculated:

Pa =

Va
100%
Vmb

where
Pa = percent air voids in the compacted mix
Va = volume of air in the compacted mix (cm3)
Vmb = bulk volume of the specimen (cm3)

B. For Asphalt Contents Without Gmm

For the asphalt contents where Gmm was not determined, the average effective

specific gravity, Gse of the aggregate from A above is used to find the percent air
voids, Pa, the percent asphalt absorbed, Pba and to estimate the maximum specific
gravity, Gmm.
1. First, find the effective volume of the mineral aggregate, Vse using the

average Gse determined from A as follows:

Vse =

Msb
Gse w

where
Vse = effective volume of the mineral aggregate (cm3)
Msb = mass of mineral aggregate in the specimen (grams)
Gse = average effective specific gravity of the blended mineral aggregate
w = the density of water (g/cm3)
2. The volume of the voidless mix, Vmm is then calculated as follows:
Vmm = Vse + Vb
where
Vmm = volume of the voidless mix (cm3)
Vse = effective volume of the mineral aggregate (cm3)
Vb = volume of asphalt cement in each specimen from step 3 in VMA calc. (cm3)

25

3. The volume of air in the compacted mix, Va is then found:

Va = Vmb Vmm
where
Va = volume of air in the compacted mix (cm3)
Vmm = volume of the voidless mix (cm3)
Vmb = bulk volume of the specimen (cm3)
4. The volume of asphalt absorbed by the aggregate, Vba is found as follows:
Vba = Vb + Vsb Vmm
where
Vba = volume of asphalt absorbed by aggregate in the compacted mix (cm3)
Vb = volume of asphalt cement in each specimen from step 3 in VMA calc. (cm3)
Vsb = volume of mineral aggregate in each specimen (cm3)
Vmm = volume of the voidless mix (cm3)
5. The mass of asphalt absorbed by the aggregate, Mba is found as follows:
Mba = Vba Gb w
where
Mba = mass of asphalt absorbed by aggregate in the compacted mix (grams)
Vba = volume of asphalt absorbed by aggregate in the compacted mix (cm3)
Gb = specific gravity of the asphalt cement used in the mix
w = the density of water = 1.0 g/cm3
6. The percent asphalt absorbed by the aggregate, Pba is then determined:
Pba =
where

Mba
100%
Msb

Pba = percent asphalt absorbed by the aggregate in the mix

Mba = mass of asphalt absorbed by aggregate in the compacted mix (grams)
Msb = mass of mineral aggregate in the specimen (grams)

26

7. The maximum specific gravity of the voidless mix, Gmm is then estimated as
follows:
Gmm =

Mmb
Vmm w

where
Gmm = maximum specific gravity of the voidless mix
Mmb = mass of the specimen in air (grams)
Vmm = volume of the voidless mix (cm3)
w = the density of water = 1.0 g/cm3
It should be noted that the Gmm should decrease with asphalt content and be
greater than the bulk specific gravity, Gmb calculated for each specimen at the
asphalt content under scrutiny. These considerations can be used to determine
whether or not the properties of each trial specimen are rational and consistent.
8. The percent air voids, Pa in the compacted mix is then calculated:
Pa =

Va
100%
Vmb

where
Pa = percent air voids in the compacted mix
Va = volume of air in the compacted mix (cm3)
Vmb = bulk volume of the specimen (cm3)

Percent of Voids Filled with Asphalt, VFA

1. The percent of the volume of voids in the mineral aggregate occupied by asphalt in
each specimen, VFA is calculated as follows:
VFA =

(Vmm Vsb ) 100%

Vvma

where
VFA = percentage of the volume of voids in the mineral aggregate filled with
asphalt cement in each specimen
Vmm = volume of the voidless mix (cm3)
Vsb = volume of mineral aggregate in each specimen (cm3)
Vvma = volume of voids in the mineral aggregate (cm3)
27

IV. DATASHEET 27
Datasheet 27 is a summary of all the calculations on the 6 copies (one for each
asphalt content) of datasheet 26. The averages for each parameter will be used to
generate plots of each parameter versus percent asphalt content.
The values being averaged must be reasonably close to each other numerically but
they must also make sense in terms of relationships between parameters:
a) The maximum specific gravities, Gmm should be higher than the bulk specific
gravities, Gmb for each asphalt content. The maximum specific gravity, Gmm
should decrease as asphalt content increases.
b) The percent asphalt absorbed, Pba should not exceed the maximum possible
asphalt absorption capacity of the blended aggregate, Pbamax.
c) The Gmb and Adjusted Marshall Stability values usually result in a maximizing
shaped curve.
d) The VMA values usually range between 10 and 20 percent and show a
minimizing shaped curve.
e) The Marshall Flow values usually increase with asphalt content.
f) The percent air voids, Pa, usually decreases with increasing asphalt content.
g) The VFA values should increase with asphalt content, but not past 100%!
The calculated values for each specimen should be scrutinized for logical and
statistical viability. Values that are logically non-viable (eg., negative) should be
stroked out with a horizontal line in the summary table of Datasheet 27. Statistical
outliers should be crossed out (X) as in lab 2. The average value of each parameter
for each asphalt content should then be based only on the viable values.
In some instances, the calculated parameters might seem reasonable, but the
Marshall Stability and flow results (for example) may seem unreasonable for one
particular asphalt content. This could be the result of leaving the specimens in the
water bath for too long or not long enough or inconsistent water bath temperature.
Sometimes one of the specimens is not tested correctly (missed the maximum load
28

dial reading or flow dial reading at maximum load). If specimens are rejected due to
irregularities in Marshall testing, parameters such as Gmb, Gmm, VMA and Pa may still
be valid and need not automatically be excluded from the analysis. Again, any values
rejected must be documented in the report.

V. DETERMINATION OF OPTIMUM ASPHALT CONTENT

There are five parameters to consider when selecting the best or optimum
asphalt content for a mix design: Gmb, Stability, Flow, VMA, Pa and VFA. Tables 3.02
and 3.03 in subsection 2.3.2 (b and c) of the course notes section of the instructors
website, specify ranges of acceptable values (according to the Asphalt Institute) for
Stability, Flow and Pa and minimum values for VMA and VFA.
The first step to identifying the optimum asphalt content is to plot the average
values of these five parameters versus percent asphalt content. This can be done
most easily by using Excel to produce Scatter Plots and then requesting a trendline
with its equation in Excel for each plot. A linear trendline should be specified for the
Pa plot and second order polynomials for all the other parameters.
The optimum asphalt content is estimated by averaging the asphalt contents for
the median value in the Pa range, the maximum Gmb value and the maximum Stability
value. These can be derived from the trendline equations.
Then, by substituting the optimum asphalt content into the equations, the values
for each parameter that would be expected when using the optimum asphalt content
can be estimated.
The mix should then be evaluated by comparing these expected values to the
ranges of acceptable parameter values in Tables 3.02 and 3.03 in the course notes
and to those for hot mix asphalt in the Ontario Provincial Standards.

29

VI.

REPORT

1. Visit the website for the Ontario Provincial Standards:

http://www.ops.on.ca/home.asp
and select Online Standards or click on the OPS link on the instructors
homepage. Using the standards indicated on the Report Forms, fill in the required
information for the report.
2. Seven graphs are required, each with trendlines and their equations and showing
the graphic estimation of parameter values for the optimum asphalt content.
These should be annotated with titles, be arranged 6 on one page, the seventh
on a separate page and shall include:
a)

top left: bulk specific gravity, Gmb versus percent asphalt content,

b)

top right: maximum specific gravity, Gmm versus percent asphalt

content,

c)

middle left: Adjusted Marshall Stability versus percent asphalt

content,

d)

middle right: flow versus percent asphalt content,

e)

bottom left: percent air voids, Pa versus percent asphalt content,

f)

bottom right: VMA versus percent asphalt content, and

g)

on a separate page, VFA versus percent asphalt content.

3. Datasheets 24 (1), 25 (1), 26 (6) and 27 (1) should be properly completed. Any
rejected data on datasheet 27 should be clearly indicated as described in
Section IV above.
a)

The determination of the optimum asphalt content should be

documented in the appropriate section of the report as should the
evaluation and comparison to the Asphalt Institute and O.P.S. criteria
for hot mix asphalt design.

30

VII.

GLOSSARY OF SYMBOLS (masses in grams, volumes in cm3)

ABSsb percent absorption capacity of blended

aggregate
ABSFA percent absorption capacity of fine
aggregate
ABSCA percent absorption capacity of coarse
aggregate
Gb apparent specific gravity of the asphalt cement
used in the mix
GCAb bulk specific gravity of the coarse aggregate
GFAb bulk specific gravity of the fine aggregate
GMFb bulk specific gravity of the mineral filler
GCAa apparent specific gravity of the coarse
aggregate
GFAa apparent specific gravity of the fine
aggregate
GMFa apparent specific gravity of the mineral filler
Gmb bulk specific gravity of compacted mix
Gmm maximum specific gravity of the voidless mix
Gsb
bulk specific gravity of the blended mineral
aggregate
Gse effective specific gravity of blended mineral
aggregate
Mb mass of asphalt cement in the specimen
Mba mass of asphalt absorbed by aggregate
Mmb mass of the specimen in air
Mmssd mass of the SSD specimen in air
Mmbw mass of the specimen in water

Mmm
Mpw
Mpws
Msb
Pa
Pb
Pba

mass of loose mix sample

mass of the pycnometer + basket in water
mass of pycnometer + sample + basket in water
mass of mineral aggregate in the specimen
percent air voids in the compacted mix
percent asphalt content (% of total mix mass)
percent asphalt absorbed by the aggregate in the
mix
PCA percent of total aggregate mass composed of
coarse aggregate
PFA percent of total aggregate mass composed of fine
aggregate
PMF percent of total aggregate mass composed of
mineral filler
w density of water = 1.0 g/cm3
Va volume of air in the compacted mix
Vb volume of asphalt cement in each specimen
Vba volume of asphalt absorbed by aggregate
Vmb bulk volume of the specimen
VMA percent voids in the mineral aggregate
Vmm volume of the voidless mix

Vsb
Vse

volume of mineral aggregate in each specimen

effective volume of the mineral aggregate

Vvma volume of voids in the mineral aggregate

VFA percent of voids in the mineral aggregate filled with
asphalt cement

31