Laboratory experimental of ballast–bituminous–latex–roving (Ballbilar) layer for conventional rail track structure

Abstract

Ballast structures continue to be utilized in Indonesia’s railway system. They are essential for conventional railway lines, which experience high levels of stress and are susceptible to damage from train traffic. This study examined the utilization of a pressure test machine and sieve analysis to determine the abrasion value of ballast made of 60/70 penetration asphalt with a binder and stabilizer material consisting of a mixture of latex and roving fiber. The test results revealed that the compressive strength of the ballast structure was positively affected by the addition of asphalt, latex, and roving fiber. However, when comparing the compressive strengths of the two ballast structures, the ballast structure with 2% asphalt and 3% latex generated superior results to that with 4% asphalt and 1% latex. In other words, asphalt, as opposed to latex, was more effective in protecting ballast material from abrasion.

Keywords

• 60/70 penetration-grade asphalt binder
• ballast
• compressive strength
• latex
• roving fiber