IRC 97 (1987) provides a tentative specification for constructing a 20 mm thick premix carpet using cationic bitumen emulsion as the binder. This standard guides the selection of aggregates, emulsion grades, mixing procedures, and application techniques to ensure durable, fuel-efficient, and environmentally friendly bituminous road surfaces. It is intended for use by engineers and contractors involved in road pavement construction and maintenance, especially where cationic bitumen emulsions offer advantages over traditional hot bitumen.
Overview
IRC 97 (1987) provides a tentative specification for constructing a 20 mm thick premix carpet using cationic bitumen emulsion as the binder. This standard guides the selection of aggregates, emulsion grades, mixing procedures, and application techniques to ensure durable, fuel-efficient, and environmentally friendly bituminous road surfaces. It is intended for use by engineers and contractors involved in road pavement construction and maintenance, especially where cationic bitumen emulsions offer advantages over traditional hot bitumen.
Audience
Contents
Structure
IRC 97: Introduction - Key Points & References
| Aspect | Reference Standard |
|---|---|
| Aggregate Testing | IS 2386 (Part V) |
| Material Quantities | IRC 97 Clause 4 |
[ \text{Volume of concrete} = \text{Length} \times \text{Breadth} \times \text{Depth} ]
Material quantities (approximate for M20 concrete):
| Material | Quantity (per m³ concrete) |
|---|---|
| Cement | 0.32 m³ (≈ 430 kg) |
| Sand | 0.45 m³ |
| Aggregate | 0.85 m³ |
| Water | 150 liters |
flowchart TD
A[Design Inputs] --> B[Material Testing (IS 2386)]
B --> C[Concrete Mix Design]
C --> D[Quantity Estimation (Clause 4)]
D --> E[Construction]
This overview sets the foundation for bridge design and material specification per IRC 97.
IRC 97 - Materials: Key Specifications & Tables
| Test | Max. Limit | IS Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Abrasion Value | 40% | IS: 2386 (Part IV) |
| Aggregate Impact Value | 30% | IS: 2386 (Part IV) |
| Flakiness Index | 30% | IS: 2386 (Part I) |
| Stripping Value | 25% | IS: 6242 |
| Water Absorption | 1% | IS: 2386 (Part III) |
| Soundness (Sodium sulphate) | 12% (5 cycles) | IS: 2386 (Part V) |
| Soundness (Magnesium sulphate) | 18% (5 cycles) | IS: 2386 (Part V) |
flowchart LR
A[Coarse Aggregate] --> B[Physical Tests]
B --> C[Los Angeles Abrasion ≤ 40%]
B --> D[Aggregate Impact ≤ 30%]
B --> E[Flakiness Index ≤ 30%]
B --> F[Stripping Value ≤ 25%]
B --> G[Water Absorption ≤ 1%]
B --> H[Soundness Tests]
H --> I[Sodium Sulphate ≤ 12%]
H --> J[Magnesium Sulphate ≤ 18%]
This ensures durable, strong aggregates suitable for road pavement layers.
IRC 97: Properties of Aggregates
| Test | Max. Limit | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Abrasion Value | 40% | IS: 2386 (Part IV) |
| Aggregate Impact Value | 30% | IS: 2386 (Part IV) |
| Flakiness Index | 30% | IS: 2386 (Part I) |
| Stripping Value | 25% | IS: 6242 |
| Water Absorption | 1% | IS: 2386 (Part III) |
| Soundness (Sodium Sulphate, 5 cycles) | 12% | IS: 2386 (Part V) |
| Soundness (Magnesium Sulphate, 5 cycles) | 18% | IS: 2386 (Part V) |
flowchart TD
A[Coarse Aggregate] --> B[Size: 13.2 mm nominal]
B --> C[Pass 19 mm sieve]
B --> D[Retain 9.5 mm sieve]
A --> E[Physical Tests]
E --> F[Los Angeles Abrasion ≤ 40%]
E --> G[Aggregate Impact ≤ 30%]
E --> H[Flakiness Index ≤ 30%]
E --> I[Water Absorption ≤ 1%]
E --> J[Soundness Tests]
J --> K[Sodium Sulphate ≤ 12% loss]
J --> L[Magnesium Sulphate ≤ 18% loss]
This ensures aggregates meet durability and strength requirements for road construction as per IRC
Binder Specifications for Premix Carpet (IRC 97)
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Binder Type | Cationic Bitumen Emulsion (MS Grade) |
| Bitumen Content | ≥ 60% by weight |
| Standard | IS 8887-1978 |
| Thickness of Carpet | 20 mm (tentative) |
flowchart LR
A[Bitumen Emulsion] --> B[MS Grade (Medium Setting)]
B --> C[Bitumen Content ≥ 60%]
C --> D[Used in 20 mm Premix Carpet]
D --> E[Ensures Adhesion & Durability]
For detailed mix design and performance criteria, refer to IS:8887-1978 and IRC 97 guidelines.
IRC 97: Mix Design & Proportions for Premix Carpet
While IRC 97 lacks explicit mix design formulas, key specifications and aggregate properties are critical for mix quality:
| Property | Max. Limit | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Abrasion Value | 40% | IS: 2386 (Part-IV) |
| Aggregate Impact Value | 30% | IS: 2386 (Part-IV) |
| Flakiness Index | 30% | IS: 2386 (Part-I) |
| Stripping Value | 25% | IS: 6242 |
| Water Absorption | 1% | IS: 2386 (Part-III) |
| Soundness (Na2SO4, 5 cycles) | 12% | IS: 2386 (Part-V) |
| Soundness (MgSO4, 5 cycles) | 18% | IS: 2386 (Part-V) |
[ \text{Binder content} = \frac{\text{Weight of bitumen emulsion}}{\text{Weight of aggregate}} \times 100% ]
Summary: Use aggregates satisfying above physical criteria, maintain binder content ~4-6%, and ensure proper gradation for a durable 20 mm premix carpet layer.
flowchart LR
A[Coarse Aggregate] --> B{Physical Properties}
B --> C[LA Abrasion ≤40%]
B --> D[Impact Value ≤30%]
B --> E[Flakiness ≤30%]
B --> F[Water Absorption ≤1%]
B --> G[Soundness Limits]
H[Bitumen Emulsion] --> I[Cationic Type]
J[Mix Design] --> K[Aggregate + Bitumen
Key Specifications & Formulas for Preparation of Base and Surface (IRC: 97)
Key Specifications & Formulas for Tack Coat (IRC 97):
| Item | Quantity per 10 m² |
|---|---|
| Tack Coat (Emulsion) | 12 - 14 kg |
| Premix Carpet | 20 - 23 kg (aggregate + emulsion) |
| Liquid Seal Coat | 12 - 14 kg (emulsion) |
| Premix Seal Coat | 10 - 12 kg (aggregate + emulsion) |
flowchart TD
A[Surface Preparation] --> B[Tack Coat Application]
B
Premix Preparation and Mixing Methods (IRC 97)
| Type | Quantity (kg/m²) |
|---|---|
| Premix carpet | 20 to 23 |
| Liquid seal coat | 12 to 14 |
| Premix seal coat | 10 to 12 |
Mixers: Cold mixing plant (IS:5435), concrete mixer, or manual shoveling.
Concrete Mixer Batch:
Mixing Steps:
Manual Mixing:
flowchart TD
A[Clean Base Surface] --> B[Apply Tack Coat]
B --> C[Prepare Premix]
C --> D[Spread Premix (within 10 min)]
D --> E[Level & Compact (Roll)]
E --> F[Apply Seal Coat (4
IRC 97: Seal Coat Composition & Application
Premixed Seal Coat Aggregate:
Coarse Aggregate for Seal Coat:
Fine Aggregate for Liquid Seal Coat:
| Seal Coat Type | Binder Quantity (kg) |
|---|---|
| Liquid Seal Coat | 12 - 14 |
| Premix Seal Coat | 10 - 12 |
| Premix Carpet | 20 - 23 |
flowchart TD
A[Surface Cleaning] --> B[Tack Coat Application]
B --> C[Premix Preparation]
C --> D[Seal Coat Spreading]
D --> E[Compaction & Finishing]
This ensures durable seal coat with proper bonding and aggregate distribution.
| Material Type | Quantity (kg/m²) |
|---|---|
| Premix Carpet | 20 - 23 |
| Liquid Seal Coat | 12 - 14 |
| Premix Seal Coat | 10 - 12 |
| Test | Max Limit | IS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Abrasion Value |
Quality Control and Testing for Coarse Aggregate (IRC 97)
Key physical property requirements for coarse aggregate are:
| Test | Max. Limit | IS Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Abrasion Value | 40% | IS: 2386 (Part-IV) |
| Aggregate Impact Value | 30% | IS: 2386 (Part-IV) |
| Flakiness Index | 30% | IS: 2386 (Part-I) |
| Stripping Value | 25% | IS: 6242 |
| Water Absorption | 1% | IS: 2386 (Part-III) |
| Soundness Loss (Na2SO4, 5 cycles) | 12% | IS: 2386 (Part-V) |
| Soundness Loss (MgSO4, 5 cycles) | 18% | IS: 2386 (Part-V) |
flowchart TD
A[Coarse Aggregate Sampling] --> B{Tests}
B --> C[Los Angeles Abrasion]
B --> D[Aggregate Impact]
B --> E[Flakiness Index]
B --> F[Stripping Value]
B --> G[Water Absorption]
B --> H[Soundness Test]
C --> I[IS:2386 Part-IV]
D --> I
E --> J[IS:2386 Part-I]
F --> K[IS:6242]
G --> L[IS:2386 Part-III]
H --> M[IS:2386 Part-V]
Ensure all tests meet the specified limits before using aggregates in construction.
Key Specifications:
| Test | Max. Limit | Reference IS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Abrasion Value | 40% | IS: 2386 (Part-IV) |
| Aggregate Impact Value | 30% | IS: 2386 (Part-IV) |
| Flakiness Index | 30% | IS: 2386 (Part-I) |
| Stripping Value | 25% | IS: 6242 |
| Water Absorption | 1% | IS: 2386 (Part-III) |
| Soundness Loss (Na2SO4, 5 cycles) | 12% | IS: 2386 (Part-V) |
| Soundness Loss (MgSO4, 5 cycles) | 18% | IS: 2386 (Part-V) |
Storage:
Handling:
[ \text{Quantity of aggregate} = \frac{\text{Volume of concrete} \times \text{Proportion of aggregate}}{1 + \text{Moisture content fraction}} ]
flowchart TD
A[Material Procurement] --> B[Inspection & Testing]
B --> C{Meets IS Specs?}
C -- Yes --> D[Proper Storage]
C -- No --> E[Reject or Reprocess]
D --> F[Handling & Transport]
F --> G[Use in Construction]
Summary: Ensure aggregates meet IS quality limits, store in dry, segregated conditions, and handle to avoid contamination or segregation for durable construction.
IRC 97: Performance & Durability Considerations for Premix Carpet
| Test | Max. Limit | IS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Abrasion Value | 40% | IS:2386 (Part-IV) |
| Aggregate Impact Value | 30% | IS:2386 (Part-IV) |
| Flakiness Index | 30% | IS:2386 (Part-I) |
| Stripping Value | 25% | IS:6242 |
| Water Absorption | 1% | IS:2386 (Part-III) |
| Soundness (Na2SO4, 5 cycles) | 12% | IS:2386 (Part-V) |
| Soundness (MgSO4, 5 cycles) | 18% | IS:2386 (Part-V) |
flowchart TD
A[Aggregate Preparation] --> B[Mixing with Cationic Emulsion]
B --> C[Sp
IRC 97 primarily focuses on road and bridge specifications, but explicit clauses on Safety and Environmental Considerations are not detailed in the provided context.
Safety Considerations:
Environmental Considerations:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Thickness | 20 mm |
| Binder | Cationic bitumen emulsion |
| Aggregate | As per IS: 2386 (Part-V) |
| Environmental Control | Minimize dust and runoff |
flowchart TD
A[Site Preparation] --> B[Safety Measures]
B --> C[Use PPE & Signage]
B --> D[Traffic Management]
A --> E[Environmental Measures]
E --> F[Dust & Noise Control]
E --> G[Waste Disposal]
E --> H[Water Protection]
For detailed safety and environmental clauses, refer to IRC:SP:55 and IS 456 for concrete structures, which complement IRC 97.
IRC 97 - References and Related Standards
IRC 97 primarily refers to Indian Standards (IS) relevant to road and bridge construction materials and testing. Key referenced IS codes include:
| Test | Acceptable Range (Example) |
|---|---|
| Specific Gravity | 2.6 - 2.9 |
| Water Absorption | < 2% (for coarse aggregates) |
| Soundness (Na2SO4) | Loss < 12% after 5 cycles |
flowchart TD
A[Aggregate Sampling] --> B[IS 2386 Tests]
B --> C[Specific Gravity]
B --> D[Water Absorption]
B --> E[Soundness Test]
C & D & E --> F[Material Selection]
F --> G[Concrete Mix Design]
G --> H[Road/Bridge Construction]
This ensures compliance with IRC 97 and related IS codes for quality infrastructure.
Frequently Asked
According to IRC 97, the physical properties required for coarse aggregates are:
| Property | Limit | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Abrasion Value | Max. 40% | IS: 2386 (Part-IV) |
| or Aggregate Impact Value | Max. 30% | IS: 2386 (Part-IV) |
| Flakiness Index | Max. 30% | IS: 2386 (Part-I) |
| Stripping Value | Max. 25% | IS: 6242 |
| Water Absorption | Max. 1% | IS: 2386 (Part-III) |
| Soundness Loss (Na2SO4, 5 cycles) | Max. 12% | IS: 2386 (Part-V) |
| Soundness Loss (MgSO4, 5 cycles) | Max. 18% | IS: 2386 (Part-V) |
Fine aggregates requirements are generally similar but focus on cleanliness, grading, and absence of organic impurities (not detailed in IRC 97 but per IS standards).
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This ensures durability and performance of aggregates in bituminous surfacing.
According to IRC 97 and IS: 8887-1978:
| Application | Grade of Cationic Bitumen Emulsion | Bitumen Content (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Premix Carpet | MS (Medium Setting) | ≥ 60 |
| Liquid Seal Coat | RS (Rapid Setting) | ≥ 60 |
| Premix Seal Coat | SS (Slow Setting) | ≥ 60 |
This ensures proper setting time and performance for each application type.
According to IRC 97 Clause 5.3, the tack coat application before laying premix carpet should follow these key steps:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Surface | Clean & damp (if WBM) |
| Emulsion mixing | Roll drums 5-6 times over 10 m |
| Tack coat application | Spray with 6 mm holes, 30 mm spacing |
| Timing | Apply tack coat ≤10 min before premix |
This ensures proper adhesion and uniform bonding for the premix carpet.
Recommended Mixing Equipment for Premix with Cationic Bitumen Emulsion (IRC 97):
Use a suitable mixer such as:
For large scale works, continuous mixing is preferred using:
Additional Notes:
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This ensures proper coating and quality premix carpet application.
Durability and Resistance to Stripping in Wet Conditions (IRC 97)
Summary:
| Parameter | IRC 97 Approach |
|---|---|
| Binder | Cationic bitumen emulsion |
| Thickness | 20 mm premix carpet |
| Stripping Resistance | Assumed good due to cationic emulsion |
| Emphasis on Stripping Value | Low unless directed by Engineer-in-Charge |
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Note: For critical projects, additional stripping tests (e.g., immersion or boiling tests) may be conducted as per Engineer's instructions.
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