Stone Matrix Asphalt

Stone matrix asphalt (SMA) is a gap-graded HMA (Figure 1) that is designed to maximize deformation (rutting) resistance and durability by using a structural basis of stone-on-stone contact (Figures 2-6). Because the aggregates are all in contact, rut resistance relies on aggregate properties rather than asphalt binder properties. Since aggregates do not deform as much as asphalt binder under load, this stone-on-stone contact greatly reduces rutting. SMA is generally more expensive than a typical dense-graded HMA (about 20 – 25 percent) because it requires more durable aggregates, higher asphalt content and, typically, a modified asphalt binder and fibers. In the right situations it should be cost-effective because of its increased rut resistance and improved durability. SMA, originally developed in Europe to resist rutting and studded tire wear, has been used in the U.S. since about 1990 (NAPA, 1999[1]).

Figure 1. Typical SMA and dense-graded HMA aggregate gradations.

Purpose

Improved rut resistance and durability. Therefore, SMA is almost exclusively used for surface courses on high volume interstates and U.S. roads.

Materials

Gap-graded aggregate (usually from coarse aggregate, manufactured sands and mineral filler all combined into a final gradation), asphalt binder (typically with a modifier)

Mix Design

Superpave or Marshall procedures with modifications. Refer to NAPA’s Designing and Constructing SMA Mixtures: State-of-the-Practice, QIP 122 (1999[1]) publication or NCHRP Report 425: Designing Stone Matrix Asphalt Mixtures for Rut-Resistant Pavements.

Figure 2. SMA Structure

Other Information

Because SMA mixes have a high asphalt binder content (on the order of 6 percent), as the mix sits in the HMA storage silos, transport trucks, and after it is placed, the asphalt binder has a tendency to drain off the aggregate and down to the bottom – a phenomenon known as “mix draindown”. Mix draindown is usually combated by adding cellulose or mineral fibers to keep the asphalt binder in place. Cellulose fibers are typically shredded newspapers and magazines, while mineral fibers are spun from molten rock. A laboratory test is run during mix design to ensure the mix is not subject to excessive draindown.

In mix design a test for voids in the coarse aggregate (AASHTO T 19) is used to ensure there is stone-on-stone contact.

Other reported SMA benefits include wet weather friction (due to a coarser surface texture), lower tire noise (due to a coarser surface texture) and less severe reflective cracking. Mineral fillers and additives are usually added to minimize asphalt binder drain-down during construction, increase the amount of asphalt binder used in the mix and to improve mix durability.

SMA Aggregate Structure. Notice the stone-on-stone contact of the larger aggregate particles
Figure 3. SMA Aggregate Structure. Notice the stone-on-stone contact of the larger aggregate particles.

Dense-Graded HMA (left) vs. SMA (right). (it is a bit more shiny from the extra asphalt binder)
Figure 4. Dense-Graded HMA (left) vs. SMA (right). (it is a bit more shiny from the extra asphalt binder)

Dense-Graded HMA (left) vs. SMA (right). Notice the SMA has a better-defined large aggregate skeleton (from NAPA, 2001)
Figure 5. Dense-Graded HMA (left) vs. SMA (right). Notice the SMA has a better-defined large aggregate skeleton (from NAPA, 2001)

SMA Pavement Surface
Figure 6. SMA Pavement Surface



Footnotes    (↵ returns to text)
  1. National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA).  (1999).  Designing and Constructing SMA Mixtures – State-of-the-Practice, Quality Improvement Series 122.  National Asphalt Pavement Association.  Landham, MD.