There are desirable properties associated with Aggregate Base Course (ABC). In pavements, Base Course is a sub-layer material that provides a supportive foundation on sidewalks top layers, that is placed directly on the undisturbed soil. The aggregates derive from concrete, recycled asphalt, or quarried rock.
Structural Uses of Aggregate Base
When doing structural foundations or base course under concrete slabs and asphalt pavement roadways, Aggregate Base is in use. It can be placed by attentive spreading then compacting.
The sub-base if formed by dust and small chipped aggregate layers, typically Crushed Fines. The crushed aggregate base lays on heavy traffic or driveways areas.
Dense Aggregate Base
Dense-graded base course are aggregates having different particular size. Recycled aggregates in concrete can also be of use. They form a dense layer having stones and minimum amount of voids. They are primarily in use when construction and pavement applications.
Common Uses of Aggregate Base
- Concrete pads and pavements foundation
- Asphalt pavement foundation
- Unpaved shoulders and roads
- Cement-treated base
- Backfill underground facilities and pipe
Sizes and Designations of Aggregate Base
The dimensions and designation vary due to the different location, as each site has governing agency requirements.
The standard designations are inclusive, but they are not limited to Macadam Base Course (MBC), Aggregate Base Course (ABC), Graded Aggregate Base (GAB), Crushed stone Base, Dense Graded Base, Subbase, and Base.
Applications of Aggregate Base
- Buildings and houses
- Highway, roads, and streets
- Commercial and residential buildings
- Railroad trackbed
- Concrete structures (parking ramps, bridges, wastewater treatment plants, water dams)
- Landscaping
- Water purification and filtration
- Erosion control
- Water drainage structures
- Agriculture soil additive (lime)
- Ball diamond surfacing
- Site reclamation
- Ice and snow control
- Livestock bedding
