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Innovation in Pavement Materials: 2nd Edition

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A special issue of Buildings (ISSN 2075-5309). This special issue belongs to the section "Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2025) | Viewed by 12196

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Dr. Tao Wang

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Guest Editor

School of Civil Engineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, China
Interests: binder material; smart road construction; green materials; intelligent transportation; pavement structure
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Huayang Yu

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Guest Editor

School of Civil Engineering and Transportation, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510000, China
Interests: pavement; smart road construction; green materials; binder; intelligent transportation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Dear Colleagues,

In this second edition of "Innovation in Pavement Materials" we delve deeper into the cutting-edge advancements and novel approaches reshaping the world of pavement engineering. This Special Issue is dedicated to exploring the latest innovations in materials and techniques that significantly enhance the performance, durability, and sustainability of pavement structures.

Our focus encompasses a wide range of topics, including, but not limited to, the development of new and improved asphalt mixtures, the use of recycled materials in pavement construction, advancements in pavement design methodologies, and the exploration of novel materials like graphene and nano-enhanced components. These innovations aim to address the growing challenges in pavement engineering, such as increasing traffic loads, environmental concerns, and the need for cost-effective, long-lasting solutions.

We will feature contributions from leading researchers and industry experts, presenting case studies, experimental research, and reviews that highlight significant progress in pavement materials. The articles provide insights into the latest trends and future directions in pavement technology, offering a platform for professionals, academicians, and students to engage with and contribute to this evolving field.

As the world requires more sustainable and resilient infrastructure, this Special Issue serves as a crucial resource for understanding and implementing the breakthroughs in pavement materials and technology. Join us in exploring the future of pavement engineering in the "Innovation in Pavement Materials: 2nd Edition".

Dr. Tao Wang
Dr. Huayang Yu
Guest Editors

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Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Buildings is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

advanced pavement materials
recycled pavement components
pavement design methodologies
nano-enhanced pavements
environmental impact of pavements
longevity and durability in pavements
smart pavement systems
asphalt technology innovation

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Related Special Issue

Innovation in Pavement Materials in Buildings (12 articles)

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Research

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22 pages, 6236 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improvement in Early-Age Strength and Durability of Precast Concrete by Shrinkage-Reducing C-S-H

by Peiyun Yu, Shuming Li, Chi Zhang, Xinguo Zheng, Tao Wang, Xianghui Liu and Yongjian Pan

Buildings 2025, 15(9), 1576; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15091576 - 7 May 2025

Viewed by 203

Abstract

In order to improve early-age strength, steam curing is mostly used for railway prefabricated components, which consumes a lot of energy and affects the durability of concrete. Synthetic calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) has an excellent early-age strength effect, which can improve the early-age strength of concrete and help to reduce the energy consumption of steam curing, but C-S-H will increase the shrinkage of concrete and affect the durability of concrete. In this work, C-S-H/SRPCA was synthesized using a shrinkage-reducing polycarboxylate superplasticizer (SRPCA) in order to increase the early-age strength and decrease the shrinkage of concrete. The effects of 0.5%, 4.0%, and 8.0% C-S-H/SRPCA on the shrinkage and strength of concrete were studied. Meanwhile, the internal mechanism was also explored through cement hydration, the physical aggregation morphology of hydration products, pore structure and classification, and the chemical properties of pore solution. The results suggest that C-S-H/SRPCA can shorten the setting time and accelerate cement hydration. Specifically, when the dosage of C-S-H/SRPCA is 4.0%, the initial setting time of concrete is shortened by 2.5 h and the final setting time is shortened by 6.2 h compared with the control group. As a result, the 1-day compressive strength is effectively increased by 29.5%, and the plastic shrinkage is reduced. In the stage of plastic shrinkage, the plastic shrinkage time of the concrete with 4.0% C-S-H/SRPCA is 4.1 h, which is 6.1 h shorter than that of the control group. In addition, C-S-H/SRPCA decreases the porosity. When the dosage is 4.0%, the porosity of the hardened cement paste at 28 days is reduced by 15% compared with the control group. It lessens the content of the capillary pores at 10–50 nm. At 24 h, the content of 10–50 nm capillary pores in the paste with 4.0% C-S-H/SRPCA is 40% lower than that of the control group. It also reduces the surface tension of the pore solution. The surface tension of the simulated pore solution with 4.0% C-S-H/SRPCA is 34 mN/m, which is 53% of that of the control group, and it inhibits the volatilization of the pore solution. At 28 days, the evaporation rate of the pore solution in the paste with 4.0% C-S-H/SRPCA is 40% lower than that of the control group. Thus, the drying shrinkage of concrete is inhibited. Given the above, at the optimum content of 4.0%, C-S-H/SRPCA improves the 1-day compressive strength of concrete by 29.5%, reduces the 28-day total shrinkage by 21.7%, and restrains the development of microcracks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Pavement Materials: 2nd Edition)

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22 pages, 8519 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study of the Rheological Properties of Rubberized Asphalt Mortar: Mechanisms of Action of Rubber Powder and Filler–Binder Ratio

by Na Ni, Jing Tang, Manzhi Li, Lingkang Zhang and Haitao Yuan

Buildings 2025, 15(1), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15010107 - 31 Dec 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 743

Abstract

Rubber asphalt mortar is widely utilized in road engineering for its excellent high-temperature stability and low-temperature crack resistance, but the influence mechanisms of the rubber powder’s mesh size, content, and filler-to-binder ratio on its performance remain unclear. This study systematically evaluated these factors through viscosity testing, rheological experiments, and viscoelastic analysis. The results indicate that the rubber powder content and filler-to-binder ratio significantly affected the viscosity and rheological properties of the mortar, with the 40-mesh rubber powder demonstrating optimal stability. The grey correlation analysis revealed that the filler-to-binder ratio is the most critical factor, followed by the rubber powder content and mesh size. The findings suggest that optimizing the filler-to-binder ratio and rubber powder content, along with appropriate temperature control during construction, can significantly enhance the mortar’s performance, providing a scientific basis for road engineering applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Pavement Materials: 2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 3764 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Steel Slag as a Sustainable Alternative Aggregate for Railway Ballast: A Shakedown Theory-Based Approach

by William Wilson dos Santos, Lisley Madeira Coelho, Sergio Neves Monteiro, Maria Esther Soares Marques and Antônio Carlos Rodrigues Guimarães

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3546; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113546 - 6 Nov 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1150

Abstract

Recent advancements in railway construction have emphasized environmental sustainability, integrating considerations of environmental impact into the planning and execution of infrastructure projects to reduce costs and mitigate adverse effects. This study investigates the use of steel slag as a sustainable alternative for railway ballast, grounded in shakedown theory. The characterization of the aggregates was performed in accordance with NBR 5564 and AREMA standards, confirming that the material meets most requirements. The mechanical behavior of the ballast was analyzed under cyclic loading conditions, assessing permanent deformation and the material’s ability to achieve stability (shakedown). Triaxial tests with repeated loading simulated real railway conditions, applying vertical stresses up to 600 kPa and confining pressures ranging from 35 to 200 kPa. The results indicate that steel slag aggregates exhibited promising performance, with seven specimens achieving stable deformation levels, characterized by residual deformations of less than 2.5 mm. Notably, these specimens approached deformations on the order of

10^{- 7}

, indicating stability under cyclic loading. Furthermore, a comparative analysis of shakedown criteria proposed by various authors revealed variations in limits for granular materials, enhancing the understanding of steel slag aggregate behavior. The experimental results were validated through numerical simulations conducted with Systrain software 2.0, which simulated a loading condition of 32.5 tons per axle, confirming the observations with maximum principal stresses ranging from 166 to 184 kPa in the ballast. The analysis showed that steel slag aggregates can withstand stress levels higher than those of granodiorite, reinforcing their viability as a sustainable alternative for railway ballast. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Pavement Materials: 2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 8586 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Mechanical Properties and Safety of Ultra-Thin Reactive Powder Concrete Prefabricated Slabs Applied to I-Beam Joints of Bridges

by Bin Liu, Xiang Liu, Buyu Jia, Quansheng Yan and Zheng Yang

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3456; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113456 - 30 Oct 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 685

Abstract

Conventional methods for constructing bridge I-beam joints face several challenges, including heavy precast slabs, complicated transportation and lifting procedures, strict accuracy requirements, lengthy construction timelines, and increased safety risks. The use of ultra-thin, high-performance reactive powder concrete (RPC) prefabricated slabs can effectively resolve these issues. However, research in this area is limited, leaving our understanding of the strength and feasibility of ultra-thin RPC slabs for I-beam joints incomplete. Therefore, this study conducts a thorough examination of the strength and safety aspects of these slabs to assess their practical suitability. First, 11 numerical models are generated to evaluate the bearing capacity of ultra-thin RPC slabs, determining key factors such as cracking load, ultimate load, and safety factor according to relevant codes and standards. This establishes a theoretical foundation for practical engineering applications. Next, several sets of ultra-thin RPC slabs that meet material performance criteria are prefabricated to study the mechanical properties under equivalent concentrated load. Finally, two types of in situ temporary construction loads are encountered in the safety calculations of the RPC slabs. This study aims to provide a robust theoretical framework and technical support for the application and advancement of ultra-thin RPC prefabricated slabs in bridge I-beam joints. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Pavement Materials: 2nd Edition)

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16 pages, 2655 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Multi-Parameter Error Model of Backcalculated Modulus Using Abaqus Finite Element Batch Modeling Based on Python Language

by Chunlong Xiong, Jiangmiao Yu, Xiaoning Zhang and Chuanxi Luo

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3454; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113454 - 30 Oct 2024

Viewed by 736

Abstract

The error in modulus backcalculation is a crucial component in validating the rationality and reliability of results for engineering applications. The objective of this study is to identify the theoretical limitations associated with backcalculated modulus errors under typical parameter uncertainties and to determine the primary factors contributing to these errors. Firstly, using the actual measurements or data from the Long-Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) project, the statistical distributions of errors for typical parameters in the modulus backcalculation model were determined. Subsequently, a factor level table for orthogonal experimental design was developed, leading to the construction of 81 orthogonal design experimental schemes and their corresponding theoretical pavement structure models based on the actual error distributions. The deflection responses of 81 theoretical pavement structure models were then computed using an ABAQUS finite element batch analysis method devised in Python. Furthermore, a multi-parameter error model for modulus was established using multiple linear regression and variance analysis. Finally, the theoretical limitations of modulus errors under actual errors were analyzed. The results show that the errors of thickness, load amplitude and load frequency follow a normal distribution, while the distribution of backcalculated modulus errors follows an approximate mixed Gaussian distribution. When the errors of multiple parameters are combined randomly, the modulus errors range from −100% to 595%, and the probability of the modulus errors being less than 15% is highest in the asphalt surface layer, followed by the subgrade, and then the base and subbase layers. Within the same error range, the modulus error is random. However, with different error ranges, the overall level of modulus error increases in proportion to the size of those ranges. Compared to factors such as thickness, load amplitude, and load frequency, the errors in deflections have a highly contribution rate on the modulus errors exceeding 99%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Pavement Materials: 2nd Edition)

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24 pages, 6197 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance of Asphalt Mixtures Modified with Desulfurized Rubber and Rock Asphalt Composites

by Shengjia Xie, Zhiqiang Cheng, Yue Zhou, Yadong Cao, Tao Wang, Zhiqiang Zhang, Yiqing Dai and Weihao Zhang

Buildings 2024, 14(9), 3026; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14093026 - 23 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1382

Abstract

This study explores the performance of asphalt mixtures modified with North American rock asphalt and desulfurized rubber particles at varying rubber-to-asphalt ratios ranging from 18% to 36% by weight. A comprehensive set of laboratory tests, including high-temperature rutting tests, low-temperature bending tests, indirect tensile tests, and freeze–thaw splitting tests, were conducted to evaluate the modified mixtures. The results indicate that both wet and dry blending methods produce mixtures that meet technical requirements, with the optimal asphalt-to-aggregate ratio determined to be 7.1%. At a rubber-to-asphalt ratio of 18%, the wet blending method slightly improves high-temperature rutting resistance compared to the dry method. However, an increase in rubber content generally enhances rutting resistance regardless of the blending technique. The wet blending method excels in low-temperature crack resistance, possibly due to better rubber dispersion, while an increase in rubber content diminishes crack resistance due to a thinning asphalt film. In terms of fatigue performance, the dry blending method results in significantly longer fatigue life, with a 27% rubber-to-asphalt ratio exhibiting optimal balance. The dry method consistently outperforms the wet method in water stability, and the resistance to water damage increases with rubber content. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into optimizing rubber-to-asphalt ratios and blending methods for various application needs, showcasing the benefits of rock asphalt and desulfurized rubber particles in asphalt modification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Pavement Materials: 2nd Edition)

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16 pages, 3410 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanical Response and Anti-Reflective Crack Design in New Asphalt Overlays on Existing Asphalt Overlaying Composite Portland Cement Pavement

by Jianping Gao, Zhixiong Qiu and Chunlong Xiong

Buildings 2024, 14(9), 2702; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14092702 - 29 Aug 2024

Viewed by 981

Abstract

A detection and evaluation system containing a two-level index of structural integrity and bearing capacity was constructed based on ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and a falling weight deflector (FWD). This system was constructed to solve problems with the detection, evaluation, and structural and material design of asphalt rehabilitation for the prevention and control of asphalt reflection cracks in asphalt overlaying composite Portland cement pavement. Based on the detected data from the GPR and FWD, the reasonable and recommended thickness range of the stress-absorbing layer was determined by the finite element method, and the optimization design of an anti-reflective crack structure is proposed. Furthermore, a material design and engineering application of the stress-absorbing layer was carried out. The results show that an additional 10 cm layer of repaved asphalt can reduce temperature stress by 64.1%, reduce fatigue stress by 29.3% at the cement slab bottom, and extend the service life by 23.1 years. The reasonable thickness of the stress-absorbing layer ranges from 1.6 cm to 2.0 cm, and the recommended structural combination design is a 4 cm SMA-13 upper layer, a 4 cm AC-16 lower layer, and a 2 cm stress-absorbing layer overlaying existing asphalt overlay. The impact toughness of the designed stress-absorbing layer is 1.05 times and 1.44 times that of the other stress-absorbing layer and the AC-16 asphalt mixture, respectively, which have been successfully used for more than 5 years. The recommended design rehabilitation has good engineering application. The uniformity of the stress-absorbing layer can reach 63%, and an anti-reflective crack effect is expected. The results of this study provide design methodology and experience for composite pavement repaving. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Pavement Materials: 2nd Edition)

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26 pages, 5705 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Interlayer Performance, Viscoelastic Performance, and Road Performance Based on High-Performance Asphalt Composite Structures

by Yan Liang, Shuaishuai Ma and Yaqin Zhang

Buildings 2024, 14(7), 1885; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14071885 - 21 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1106

Abstract

Weaknesses generated in asphalt pavement structures have a serious impact on the service life of pavements. In order to improve such situations and achieve the goal of enhancing the durability of the pavement structure, this study assesses the performance of heavy-duty asphalt and high-viscosity asphalt, using four high-performance asphalt mixtures: heavy-duty AC-20, high-viscosity AC-20, heavy-duty SMA-13, and heavy-duty SMA-10. Three composite pavement structures were designed: 3 cm SMA-10 + 3 cm SMA-10, 4 cm SMA-13 + 4 cm SMA-10, and 6 cm SMA-13 + 4 cm AC-20. Interlayer performance analysis was conducted on single-layer and composite structures through oblique shear tests; dynamic modulus, fatigue life, and antirutting performance tests on asphalt pavement structural layers were designed and conducted, and the durability performance of high-performance asphalt pavement structural layers was evaluated. The experimental results show that the shear strength of heavy-duty AC is higher than that of heavy-duty SMA, the 4 + 4 combination structure has the best shear strength, the 6 + 4 combination structure has the best structural performance and fatigue resistance, and the 3 + 3 combination structure has the best high-temperature antirutting performance. The comprehensive performance of the 4 + 4 structure is the best among the three combined structures, followed by that of the 6 + 4 structure, and the performance of the 3 + 3 structure is the worst. In addition, this study used bonding energy as an evaluation index and verified the applicability of the bonding energy evaluation index by studying four types of single-layer pavement structures and three types of composite pavement structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Pavement Materials: 2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 6168 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analyzing the Mechanical and Durability Characteristics of Steel Slag-Infused Asphalt Concrete in Roadway Construction

by Xijuan Zhao and Yemao Zhang

Buildings 2024, 14(3), 679; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14030679 - 4 Mar 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2428

Abstract

Steel slag is a solid byproduct of the steelmaking process, widely generated in the metallurgical industry. Due to its alkaline nature and excellent adhesive properties with asphalt, it represents a potential road construction material with outstanding road performance, making it well-suited for utilization in highway construction. This paper conducts a systematic analysis of the physical and chemical properties of steel slag, specifically South Steel Electric Furnace slag, and compares it with natural basalt and limestone aggregates. The aim is to establish a foundation for the application of steel slag in asphalt mixtures. Building upon this foundation, we carry out proportioning design for AC-13C and SMA-13 steel slag asphalt mixtures, followed by a comprehensive study of their high-temperature stability, low-temperature stability, water stability, and fatigue performance. Our research reveals variations in the chemical composition of different steel slags, with CaO, SiO₂, and Fe₂O₃ being the primary components. The content of harmful elements varies depending on the steelmaking raw materials and additives used. Notably, the optimum asphalt-to-aggregate ratios for AC-13C and SMA-13 significantly surpass the specified requirements. The freeze–thaw splitting strength ratio and residual stability of steel slag AC-13C and SMA-13 asphalt mixtures exceed the specified requirements, with AC-13C demonstrating the highest water stability, boasting a freeze–thaw splitting strength ratio of 94.07%, and a residual stability of 93.8%. In terms of fatigue characteristics, SMA-13 exhibits a longer fatigue life than AC-13C, indicating superior fatigue performance for steel slag SMA-13. Steel slag enhances the abrasion resistance and rutting resistance of asphalt pavement surface layers, fully meeting the performance requirements for high-grade road surface layers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Pavement Materials: 2nd Edition)

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Review

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35 pages, 3147 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Holistic View of Asphalt Binder Aging under Ultraviolet Conditions: Chemical, Structural, and Rheological Characterization

by Qi Zheng, Peikai He, Dan Zhang, Yuxin Weng, Jie Lu and Tao Wang

Buildings 2024, 14(10), 3276; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14103276 - 16 Oct 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1775

Abstract

Asphalt, as a key binder material in road construction, is susceptible to ultraviolet (UV) radiation-induced aging, leading to embrittlement and reduced durability. Despite the significance of UV aging, research in this area remains limited compared to that on thermal aging. This paper comprehensively reviews the current state of research on UV aging in asphalt, focusing on its mechanism, evaluation indicators, and methods to delay or avoid UV aging. The structural components, rheological properties, and aging mechanisms of asphalt are discussed. Various UV aging simulation methods, including the use of UV chambers and accelerated aging tests, are presented along with their evaluation tests such as dynamic shear rheometry, rutting tests, Fourier infrared spectroscopy, and bending beam rheology. Key indicators used to assess UV aging, including physical properties, rheological parameters, and chemical composition changes, are summarized. The mechanisms underlying UV aging, particularly the changes in asphalt’s structural components and rheological properties, are examined. The impact of factors like radiation intensity, temperature, chemical composition, and asphalt film thickness on UV aging is discussed. Additionally, various additives and modifiers, including modified bitumen, UV shielding agents, UV absorbers, antioxidants, and nanomodifiers, are reviewed for their potential to mitigate UV aging. This paper concludes by highlighting the challenges in developing standardized test equipment and evaluation criteria, the limitations of organic modifiers, and the need for further research on nanomaterials to improve asphalt’s UV aging resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Pavement Materials: 2nd Edition)

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