What does the term "voids in mineral aggregate" (VMA) refer to?

The term "voids in mineral aggregate" (VMA) specifically refers to the volume of voids in the aggregate that can be filled with asphalt binder. VMA is an important parameter in asphalt mix design because it helps determine how much asphalt binder will be needed to fill the voids in the aggregate, which contributes to the overall durability and performance of the asphalt mixture.

Understanding VMA is crucial for achieving optimal performance in asphalt pavements. A higher VMA typically indicates a mix that can accommodate more asphalt binder, which can improve the mix's resistance to moisture damage, cracking, and rutting. Additionally, it impacts the air voids in the compacted asphalt and overall stability of the pavement.

The other choices reflect different concepts within asphalt mix design but do not accurately define what VMA represents. For instance, the percentage of asphalt binder is a separate consideration in determining the mixture's composition, while the total weight of the aggregate is related to the mass of materials and not the void structure within that aggregate. Similarly, density is a measurement of the compacted asphalt mix itself, rather than a description of the voids in the aggregates. Therefore, identifying the correct understanding of VMA is vital for effective asphalt mix design and evaluation.