Induction-Heatable Asphalt Pellets as a New Material in Road Maintenance

Abstract

In the present investigation, asphalt pellets containing steel grit have been prepared and tested as an energy-efficient and durable alternative to conventional road construction materials, such as hot- and cold-asphalt mixtures. Among other advantages, this technology is highly energy-efficient and could reduce traffic disruption and improve health and safety conditions for operators. Pellets are simply used in the road by laying, induction-heating, and compacting them. In the paper, their heating potential under the action of electromagnetic induction, and volumetric and mechanical properties of the material resulting after compaction, such as tensile strength, shear strength, and resistance to permanent deformation, were obtained to assess the proposed technology and compare it with hot- and cold-mix asphalt. The results have shown that the technology can be a strong competitor among current repairing materials for isolated and punctual potholes but still cannot be offered as a substitute for major maintenance operations, such as road milling and repaving.