Evaluation of Field-Produced Aramid Fiber–Reinforced Asphalt Mixtures

Abstract

This paper summarizes the results of a study that was conducted to evaluate the performance of field-produced aramid fiber-reinforced asphalt mixtures used for resurfacing applications and compare it to that of polymer-modified asphalt mixtures. Twelve test sections were constructed as part of resurfacing projects in Ohio. Two aramid fibers from different sources were used in these projects. During the construction of the test sections, loose asphalt mixtures were collected and were used to prepare samples. Different tests were conducted on the prepared samples. These included the following: semicircular bend and indirect tensile asphalt cracking to evaluate the cracking resistance of prepared samples, the asphalt concrete cracking device test to evaluate the low-temperature cracking resistance of prepared samples, and the Hamburg wheel tracking test to evaluate the resistance of samples to rutting and moisture damage. Results indicated that the effects of the addition of aramid fiber to asphalt mixture vary depending on the type of aramid fiber and mixture properties. In general, Fiber A and Fiber B significantly improved the cracking resistance of mixtures with PG 64-22. Furthermore, mixtures with PG 64-22 binder and aramid fibers had similar or higher cracking resistance as compared to those with PG 70-22M asphalt mixture. The addition of fibers improved the resistance of reinforced mixtures to rutting and moisture damage. The fibers slightly improved the low-temperature cracking resistance of asphalt mixtures. Statistical analysis of testing results indicated that the properties related to the cracking resistance of the fiber mixtures did not significantly change during production.