Relationship between bailey and dominant aggregate size range methods for optimum aggregate packing and permeability limitation

Abstract

The Bailey method and the Dominant Aggregate Size Range (DASR) method were developed to optimize aggregate skeleton packing for enhancement of structural strength designs of Hot/Warm Mix Asphalt (HMA/WMA). These design support methods are not always properly correlated with each other. They aroften perceived as giving conflicting or confusing descriptions of the same aspects of the HMA/WMA. To help clarify and improve the correlation, the aggregate skeleton is broken into macro, midi and micro level aggregate subset skeletons to evaluate the contributions of various aggregate fraction ranges to structural strength of the mix. Rut resistance and fatigue cracking limitation are traditional design objectives of any HMA mix design. Permeability of HMA is linked with durability effects such as stripping. Permeability is however not directly controlled via the aggregate skeleton packing efficiency methods. The Bailey method, and more so the DASR method, show promise to understand this link or help to control permeability. The Bailey method is discussed as a reference by looking at new ratios and attempting to verify the aggregate skeleton packing in a logical fashion. The DASR principles of porosity are used to explain the impact of the numerator and denominator, particularly the new or rational Bailey ratios, in terms of porosity as separate and combined contiguous aggregate fraction ranges. The logical filling of voids of the macro, midi and micro aggregate skeleton subsets can thus be traced as well. These aggregate skeleton subsets combined or infilled, constitute the overall matrix of the aggregate mix. Data sets of published papers on this subject were reworked / re-analysed to help illustrate the concepts and trends observable for improved aggregate packing as well as limiting permeability. New improved criteria for permeability control are also presented in DASR and rational Bailey ratio terms to help optimize the design outcome.