The presence of chemical contaminants in aggregate can significantly compromise the performance of concrete, asphalt, and stabilised pavement materials — making chemical testing an essential step in aggregate quality assessment. Western Geotechnical Laboratory Services (WGLS) provides accredited aggregate chemical testing to Australian Standards, including Clay Fine Silt (AS 1141.33), Organic Impurities (AS 1141.34), and the detection of Sugar in aggregate (AS 1141.35). These tests identify harmful contaminants that can inhibit cement hydration, disrupt bitumen adhesion, and reduce the long-term integrity of bound pavement layers — giving engineers, concrete producers, and contractors the confidence to approve or reject aggregate sources before construction begins.
