The Micro-Deval test was evaluated for its suitability in assessing the durability of fine aggregate from Virginia sources. Fine aggregates from 10 sources with known performance histories were tested with the Micro-Deval and several common aggregate quality methods. The Canadian Micro-Deval testing protocol for fine aggregates was followed. The results obtained with the Micro-Deval test showed better precision than those obtained with the conventional aggregate tests. In terms of field performance rating, the Micro-Deval test was able to differentiate between good- and poor-performing aggregates at least 80% of the time and was able to identify differences in quality between similar aggregate types with varying degrees of weathering. The Micro-Deval test is recommended as a quality control tool for fine aggregate assessment to supplement the current measures of aggregate quality. After sufficient data have been gathered and compared with data regarding field performance, it may be possible to replace the existing soundness or freeze–thaw tests with the Micro-Deval test.

Aggregate is the most widely used construction material, and a key aspect of aggregate quality is durability. In this study, the Micro-Deval test was studied to evaluate its suitability for assessing the durability of coarse aggregates from Virginia sources. Results obtained with the Micro-Deval test and several commonly used aggregate tests were compared. The Micro-Deval test showed a very high potential to evaluate aggregate durability with better precision than did the conventional tests. It was able to differentiate between good- and poorly-performing aggregates at least 70% of the time and was able to identify the quality difference between similar aggregate types with varying degrees of weathering. Thus, the Micro-Deval test is recommended for use as a quality control tool for aggregate assessment to supplement the current measures of aggregate quality.