Evaluation of 3D laser device for characterizing shape and surface properties of aggregates used in pavements

Abstract

A new three-dimensional (3D) laser scanning device has been acquired by CSIR Built Environment to determine rock aggregates shape and surface properties. The overall objective is to employ laser-based techniques to accurately determine characteristics of shape, volume, angularity, surface texture, surface area, and grading of rock aggregates that influence performance of road and airfield pavements in South Africa. This paper presents results obtained from a comprehensive scanning evaluation program for the 3D laser device using fifteen different spherical and twelve cubic shaped objects. The laser device was evaluated for accuracy and repeatability to compute aggregate surface area and volume properties. The results showed that the laser device measurements were in very good agreement with the computed theoretical values of the spherical and cubical objects. Thus, there is potential that the laser device will provide accurate and reliable shape and surface properties of rock aggregates to efficiently rank and utilize the sources of aggregate stockpiles used for pavement construction.