Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 7, 2025

Using a Chemical Biopsy for Graft Quality Assessment
Published on: June 17, 2020
Petrographic and Geotechnical Characteristics of Carbonate Aggregates from Poland and Their Correlation with the
Jerzy Trzciński1,2, Emilia Wójcik2, Mateusz Marszałek2
1Institute of Archaeology, Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University, Wóycickiego 1/3, 01-938 Warsaw, Poland.
Abstract:
The paper presents the basic problem related with practical application of carbonate rocks in construction: are carbonate aggregates produced from such rocks favorable for building engineering, particularly for road design and construction? To resolve this problem, (1) the geological-engineering properties of aggregates are presented, (2) the correlation between petrographic and engineering parameters is shown, and (3) a strict correlation between the geological-engineering properties and the freezing-thawing and crushing resistance is recognized. This knowledge has allowed to assess the usefulness of asphalt concrete (AC) made from dolomite and limestone aggregates in the design and construction of road surface structures. The petrography was characterized using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscope (EDS). Engineering properties were determined in accordance with European and Polish norms and guidelines. Statistical and design calculations were performed using dedicated software. The petrographic properties, and selected physical and mechanical parameters of the aggregates, were tested to show their influence on the freezing-thawing and crushing resistance. Strong functional relationships between the water adsorption, and the freezing-thawing and crushing resistance have been observed. Aggregate strength decreased after saturation with increasing concentrations of salt solutions. Calculations of AC fatigue durability and deformation allow for reducing the thickness of the road surface structure by about 20% in comparison to normative solutions. This conclusion has impact on the economy of road design and construction, and allows for a rational utilization of rock resources, which contributes to sustainable development of the construction industry.
Related Concept Videos
Aggregates Classification
Petrographic classification groups aggregates based on common mineralogical characteristics. Some of the common mineral groups found in aggregates are...
Shape and Texture of Coarse Aggregate
Deleterious Substances in Aggregate
Another type of impurity is clay and fine material that...
Design Example: Aggregate Gradation
The grading, or particle-size distribution, of sand is determined using sieve analysis, with standard sizes ranging from 150 μm to 10 mm (ASTM No. 100 sieve to 3⁄8 in. sieve). Sand is...
Types of Aggregate Grading
Well-graded aggregates include a complete range of necessary size fractions that fit together to create a dense matrix with minimal voids, represented by a smooth, continuous gradation curve. This type of grading ensures good...
Unsoundness of Aggregate due to Volume Change
