Journal Published Online: 15 July 2020
Volume 49, Issue 2

Laboratory Evaluation of Modified Asphalt Mixes Using Nanomaterial

CODEN: JTEVAB

Abstract

More demands on pavement—including increasing temperature variability and precipitation and higher loading conditions, along with an increase in the rate of load applications—result in decreased pavement performance and reduce its service life. Three major distresses identified with asphalt pavements are rutting, fatigue cracking, and thermal cracking. Polymers have been frequently used for modification of asphalt binders to improve pavement performance and reduce pavement distress. However, there are problems associated with incompatibility between the modifier (polymer) and the binder as well as a reduction in the aging resistance of the asphalt. Furthermore, asphalt modification with polymers can result in operational difficulties as well as a significant increase in cost. This paper investigates the application of several nanomaterials, including nanoclays (halloysite and bentonite) and cellulose nanocrystals, as promising alternatives to improve asphalt performance and increase the service life of asphalt pavements. Using the Superior Performing Asphalt Pavement (SuperPave) asphalt mixture design and analysis system, the rheological properties of nanomodified asphalt binder and mechanical properties of the resulting asphalt mixes were evaluated at low and high temperatures. Results showed a noticeable improvement in the high-temperature properties of the modified asphalt mixes, with no significant effect on the low-temperature properties of the asphalt mixes or rheological properties of the modified asphalt binder. Considering the cost of the nanomaterials, it was concluded that they may provide a cost-effective alternative for asphalt modification.

Author Information

Johnson, Thomas W.
University of Alberta, Natural Resource Engineering Facility, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Hashemian, Leila
University of Alberta, 7-255 Donadeo Innovation Centre for Engineering, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Pages: 17
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JTE20190840
ISSN: 0090-3973
DOI: 10.1520/JTE20190840