Laboratory compaction of coarse-grained asphalt mixtures using a gyratory compactor

Introduction. In Ukraine, the procedure for designing asphalt mixtures includes selecting the ratio of aggregates, determining the optimal bitumen content, testing the asphalt concrete with the selected bitumen content, and refining the mix desgn if necessary. A similar procedure is used in the United States, the European Union, Australia, and other countries. However, the key difference lies in the equipment used to prepare asphalt concrete samples. Problem Statement. In recent years, the method of asphalt concrete sample preparation in Ukraine using compression compaction has been subject to criticism. The main concerns include the lack of a clearly defined loading rate, potential crushing of mineral aggregate grains during sample preparation, and the fact that the compaction achieved in laboratory conditions is often lower than that in road pavement layers. These factors may lead to suboptimal asphalt mixture design and premature defect formation during operation. This necessitates research to optimize laboratory compaction of asphalt concrete mixtures, particularly through the use of a gyratory compactor. Objective. To implement a gyratory compactor for laboratory compaction of coarse-grained asphalt mixtures.