Aggregate base is typically composed of crushed rock capable of passing through a 3⁄4 in (19.05 mm) rock screen. The component particles will vary in size from 3/4 inch down to dust. The material can be made of virgin (newly mined) rock, or of recycled asphalt and concrete.
Base is used as a base course in roadways, as a base course for cement pads and foundations, and as backfill material for underground pipelines and other underground utilities.
"Base course" refers to the sub-base layer of an asphalt roadway. Generally consisting of larger grade aggregate, spread and compacted to provide a stable base for further layers of aggregates or asphalt pavement. Aggregate base course is often referred to as ABC.
Famous quotes containing the words aggregate and/or base:
“The aggregate of all knowledge has not yet become culture in us. Rather it would seem as if, with the progressive scientific penetration and dissection of reality, the foundations of our thinking grow ever more precarious and unstable.”
—Johan Huizinga (1872–1945)
“Do not gain basely; base gain is equal to ruin.”
—Hesiod (c. 8th century B.C.)