Application of Underutilized Quarry Fines as Mineral Filler in Bituminous Paving Mixtures

Abstract: Quarry fines, a by-product of aggregate production, represent a significant volume of underutilized material with potential for sustainable pavement applications. This study investigates the application of underutilized quarry fines as mineral filler in Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA) paving mixtures. The experimental program consists of fabricating mortar mixtures incorporating quarry fines and subjecting them to rheological and mechanical testing. Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) testing was performed on both unaged and Rolling Thin-Film Oven (RTFO) aged total fine mortar samples. Furthermore, Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR) testing was conducted on mortar samples aged through a Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) to evaluate low-temperature performance. The testing plan was designed to generate performance-based metrics on stiffness, relaxation, and durability that will guide the determination of quarry fines suitability as a filler replacement material. Initial findings indicated that the tested quarry fines meet the GDOT Specification Section 883.2 requirements for mineral filler. However, some practical challenges were observed, such as elevated moisture contents and a tendency for fine particles to stick together and form clumps. These issues will need to be addressed during full-scale implementation in asphalt plants to ensure consistent handling and mixture performance. The results of this research are expected to provide practical insights into the role of quarry fines in enhancing pavement sustainability while reducing reliance on traditional fillers such as fly ash and limestone dust. Implementation of this work could lead to cost-effective, durable, and sustainable pavement construction practices.