Investigating the Performance of Nano-Modified Asphalt Binders Incorporated with Warm Mix Additives

Abstract

The current investigation presents a laboratory assessment of the physical and rheological properties of control and nanosilica-modified asphalt binders incorporated with warm mix additives (WMAs). Nanosilica can be produced from rice husk and silica fumes and therefore is a cost-effective and environment-friendly asphalt modifier. Fisher-Tropsch wax (FT wax) and organosilane additive were the two WMAs utilized in the current study. The study utilized three concentrations for each additive. Rutting evaluation of the asphalt binders was done through Superpave rutting and the multiple stress creep and recovery (MSCR) test. The fatigue performance was evaluated utilizing the Superpave fatigue test and the linear amplitude sweep (LAS) test. The results of this study revealed that adding WMAs decreased the viscosity of the control and nanosilica-modified asphalt binders. The asphalt binder showed an improved elevated temperature performance after the incorporation of WMA additives. The incorporation of WMA additives enhanced the resistance against fatigue cracking as revealed by the LAS test. The resistance to aging was enhanced after the addition of warm mix additives.