What is Stripping
Stripping with reference roads made of asphalt/ bituminous binders, refers to the "loss of bond between the binder and the aggregate." This bond between the stone /aggregate and the binder is the most important factor influencing the road / pavement life and durability.
Main Reasons / Causes of Stripping
The primary causes of stripping in roads are :
- Water – In the form of rain, snow, ground water, sea water, moisture etc.
- Nature of Aggregate. Certain types of aggregate do not bond or adhere well with bituminous binders due to their composition. This aggregate are generally "water – loving" and are called "hydrophillic aggregate". These aggregate are highly prone to stripping in the presence of water.
- High air voids and low density of Hot Mix.
- Improper or no drainage system of the road / highway / pavement.
- Poor workmanship and weak initial binder – aggregate bond.
- Construction weather and area climate
- Traffic load
