Aggregate Blendin
Aggregate Blending Model for Hot Mix Asphalt Using Linear Optimization
Khaled A. Kandil and Al-Sayed A. Al-Sobky
Public Works Department, Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
Abstract: The main objective of the aggregate-blending process is to combine different aggregate sizes to produce a final blend (called job mix) that can meet the predefined specification limits for each sieve. Traditionally, this step is carried out by trial-and-error or by using graphical methods. These methods are time consuming and depend on the experience of the engineer. With the rapid advancement of computer technology, several models were developed to get the optimum aggregate blend utilizing other techniques such as genetic algorithms, linear programming, and multi-objectives linear programming. This study explores the use of the fuzzy triangular membership function to develop a linear programming model that can be used to determine the optimum aggregate blend taking into consideration the specification design range, tolerances of job mix formula, and variability associated with the percent passing each sieve. The developed model was validated through a numerical example. It was concluded that the proposed approach would be used effectively as an intelligent tool to determine the optimum aggregate blending for hot-mix asphalt.
[Khaled A. Kandil and Al-Sayed A. Al-Sobky. Aggregate Blending Model for Hot-Mix Asphalt Using Linear Optimization. J Am Sci2013;9(6):361-365]. (ISSN: 1545-1003). http://www.jofamericanscience.org. 42
Keywords: Aggregate Blending, Hot-Mix Asphalt, Linear programming, Fuzzy logic, Membership functions, Variability.
