Introduction. The properties of bituminous-mineral materials are determined by the bonds formed between individual mineral grains and depend on the characteristics of the bitumen, the thickness of the bitumen layer covering the mineral grains, as well as the interaction processes between the mineral materials and bitumen at their joint interface. To ensure a strong and stable bond between the grains, the bitumen must evenly cover the surface of the mineral materials with a thin layer. To improve the strength of road pavement made from bituminous-mineral material, it is necessary for the maximum amount of bitumen to be adsorbed by the mineral material, minimizing the content of free bitumen.
Problem Statement. Depending on the nature of the mineral material and the chemical composition of the bitumen, the properties of its thin layers change in various ways. On an active mineral surface, the strength of the bitumen in a thin layer increases as the thickness decreases, while on an inactive surface, the strength of the bitumen remains largely unchanged with a decrease in layer thickness.
Objective. This research is aimed at determining the impact of fillers of different origins on the volumetric properties of asphalt concrete and its mechanical properties, as well as its weather resistance.
Materials and Methods. For the study, mineral powder from limestone, granite, quartzite, and fly ash was used.
Results. The test results showed that as the bitumen content increases, the actual density of the asphalt concrete mixture gradually decreases, while the average density of the asphalt concrete increases. At the same time, there is no clear relationship between changes in the average density of the mineral part and its porosity depending on the bitumen content, though a correlation exists between these two indicators. Simultaneously, the gradual increase in bitumen content leads to an increase in the number of pores filled with binder.
Conclusions. All the tested fillers can be used for asphalt concrete production, but in certain cases, measures need to be taken to improve the water resistance of the asphalt concrete, such as using additives based on surfactants or combining these fillers with limestone or other sedimentary carbonate rocks.
The use of the materials studied in road construction will reduce the extraction of standard natural materials and decrease the negative environmental impact of waste.
