Aggregate Imaging System (AIMS): Basics and Applications (5-1707-01-1)

This report summarizes the design, basic operations, and analysis methods used in the Aggregate Imaging System (AIMS). The system is designed to analyze the form, angularity, and texture of coarse aggregates and the angularity and form of fine aggregates. Aggregates sizes from 37.5 mm to 150 mm can be analyzed using this system. In addition, the report summarizes the statistical-based methodology used in AIMS for the analysis and classification of aggregate shape. This methodology offers several advantages over current methods used in the practice. It is based on the distribution of shape characteristics in an aggregate sample rather than average indices of these characteristics. The coarse aggregate form is determined based on three-dimensional analysis of particles, which allows distinguishing between flat, elongated, or flat and elongated particles. The fundamental gradient and wavelet methods are used to quantify angularity and surface texture, respectively. The classification methodology can be used for the evaluation of the effects of different processes such as crushing techniques and blending on aggregate shape distribution. It also lends itself for the development of aggregate specifications based on the distribution of shape characteristics.