Los Angeles Abrasion Test

The principle of Los Angeles Abrasion Test is to find out the percentage wear due to the
relative rubbing action between the aggregates and steel balls used as abrasive charge. During
Los Angeles Abrasion Test, both abrasion or rubbing action between the aggregates and the
steel balls and also impact or pounding action of these balls on the aggregates takes place.
Therefore Los Angeles Abrasion Test is considered to be more reliable for evaluating the
suitability of coarse aggregates in pavements as both abrasion and impact occur during the
test similar to the field conditions. This test has been standardised by the BIS, ASTM and
AASHTO. Acceptable limits of Los Angeles abrasion values of coarse aggregates have been
specified by the IRC and also the MORTH.