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Civil Engineering · Q43

Highway Engineering

Engineering and GATE · Civil Engineering · question 43

Q43

The maximum limit of water absorption for aggregate suitable for road construction is

A.
0.4 %
B.
0.6 %
Answer
C.
0.8 %
D.
1.0 %

Answer: Option B

Solution

Answer: Option B
Solution:
For aggregates used in road construction, the water absorption should not exceed 0.6%. Low water absorption indicates that the aggregate is dense, strong, and has low porosity, making it more durable and resistant to weathering.

Aggregates with higher water absorption tend to absorb more moisture, which can reduce their strength, decrease durability, and weaken the bond with bituminous or cementitious materials. This may lead to premature pavement deterioration.

Therefore, for good-quality road aggregates, the maximum permissible water absorption is 0.6%, making Option B the correct answer.

Key Point:

Lower water absorption indicates better quality, higher durability, and greater resistance to environmental effects, which are essential characteristics for aggregates used in highway construction.