Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of Dimethyl Sulfoxide Pretreated Graphene Modified Asphalt

Abstract

The rutting and cracking distresses of asphalt pavement severely affect its service life. Enhancing the visco-toughness and mechanical properties of asphalt by using graphene may improve the durability of asphalt pavement. To enhance the visco-toughness and mechanical properties of asphalt, dimethyl sulfoxide pretreated graphene (DG) was utilized to modify asphalt, and its effects on the microstructure and mechanical properties of asphalt were investigated using X-ray diffraction, Charpy impact, bending fracture, and other tests, thus revealing DG’s enhancement mechanism Results indicate that the layer spacing of DG is increased, indicating that intercalation structures between asphalt and DG are formed. When the crack tip meets the intercalated DG, the partial fracture energy is absorbed, enhancing the asphalt’s tenacity and hindering crack propagation. The energy absorption capacity and impact visco-toughness are also enhanced. Finally, the DG intercalation structure disperses the primary crack propagation by producing many microcracks, so that the brittle fracture is reduced at low temperatures. DG shows much promise as an application for improving the mechanical properties of asphalt.