What role does the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) play in evaluating aggregate quality?

The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) is a critical test used in geotechnical engineering and construction to evaluate the strength of subgrade and base course materials. The CBR provides a measure of the strength of these materials in relation to a standard, which is essential for ensuring that a pavement structure can adequately support the expected traffic loads without excessive deformation or failure.

When determining the suitability of materials for use in construction, the CBR test evaluates how well a particular soil or aggregate material will perform under load. Higher CBR values indicate stronger materials that can better withstand loads, making them more suitable for use in roadway construction and other applications where structural integrity is vital.

Understanding the CBR value helps engineers make informed decisions about the design and construction of pavement structures, ensuring longevity and performance under traffic use. It does not, however, provide information about moisture content, particle size distribution, or frost resistance, focusing instead on the material's bearing capacity and strength characteristics.