SUITABILITY ASSESSMENT FOR ROAD AGGREGATES OF LOCKHART LIMESTONE EXPOSED IN RATA SHAH, ISLAMABAD

Abstract

The geotechnical properties of road aggregates are very important in determining the road quality. Aggregates that are used in Rawalpindi and Islamabad construction practices are mostly derived from quarries located in and near Taxila. In Pakistan, a common practice is the utilization of aggregate materials without assessing their geotechnical behavior. There are various quarries that are not tested for their geotechnical evaluation, but still large amount of crush is being used in various road construction activities. Following study involves a famous quarry near Taxila that has been selected for the evaluation of aggregate geotechnical evaluation to use as road aggregate. For geotechnical testing and quality assessment NHA standards have been followed. To assess the physical parameters first the field work was done, then, tests which involve Crushing value, Impact value, Los Angles abrasion value etc. were performed. According to standards, the properties of Rata Shah aggregate lies within the specified limits and can be used as a suitable aggregate material for road construction. The study is important in terms of growing economy and the need of the rise in construction standard with it.