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Keywords = tensile strength ratio (TSR)

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36 pages, 47075 KB  
Review
Mechanistic Review on Moisture Damage Susceptibility of Warm Mix Asphalt with Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement
by Suleiman Abdulrahman, Sadi Ibrahim Haruna, Yasser E. Ibrahim, Nura Shehu Aliyu Yaro and Abdulwarith Ibrahim Bibi Farouk
Eng 2026, 7(7), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng7070349 - 16 Jul 2026
Viewed by 212
Abstract
Warm mix asphalt (WMA) provides a sustainable way of lowering production temperatures, reducing energy use for sustainable pavement construction; however, moisture damage affects its durability. Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) contains aged binder that is stiffer, harder, and more brittle than virgin binder, resulting [...] Read more.
Warm mix asphalt (WMA) provides a sustainable way of lowering production temperatures, reducing energy use for sustainable pavement construction; however, moisture damage affects its durability. Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) contains aged binder that is stiffer, harder, and more brittle than virgin binder, resulting in asphalt mixtures with higher stiffness/modulus. This review examines the effect of incorporating RAP to amend the moisture damage susceptibility of WMA. It surveys the various moisture-damage failures reported in the literature on WMA with RAP mixes, including adhesive and cohesive failures, as well as hydraulic scouring and aggregate fracture. The analysis further explains the influence of WMA technology, RAP content, rejuvenation, and interfacial chemistry on the moisture durability of WMA-RAP mixtures. The strengths and limitations of the conventional and emerging moisture damage evaluation tests, including AASHTO T 283 tensile strength ratio (TSR), boiling water test (BWT), surface free energy (SFE), and fracture-energy-based approaches, were compared. This mechanistic synthesis linking production-related moisture sources, RAP heterogeneity and practical mitigation strategies highlights why reliance on TSR alone can conceal moisture-cracking vulnerability. The synthesis clarifies how RAP changes the moisture damage susceptibility of WMA to retain the environmental, economic and social benefits and circularity without compromising durability. This review proposes a practical roadmap based on technology-specific screening, multi-metric performance evaluation, and construction quality control for more reliable WMA-RAP specifications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical, Civil and Environmental Engineering)
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25 pages, 4246 KB  
Article
Interfacial Compatibility and Performance Evaluation of Waste Plastic Aggregate in SBS-Modified Asphalt Mixtures Using Liquid Anti-Stripping Agents
by Joohan Eom, Kyungnam Kim, Jaehyun Lee and Tri Ho Minh Le
Polymers 2026, 18(13), 1583; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18131583 - 25 Jun 2026
Viewed by 293
Abstract
Waste plastic aggregate (WPA) is a promising recycled material for asphalt mixtures, but its polymeric surface can weaken binder adhesion and increase moisture-related damage, even in SBS-modified systems. Therefore, a clear need exists to identify anti-stripping agents that are compatible with WPA, rather [...] Read more.
Waste plastic aggregate (WPA) is a promising recycled material for asphalt mixtures, but its polymeric surface can weaken binder adhesion and increase moisture-related damage, even in SBS-modified systems. Therefore, a clear need exists to identify anti-stripping agents that are compatible with WPA, rather than simply increasing WPA content in asphalt mixtures. This study evaluates the interfacial and mixture-scale performance of SBS-modified asphalt mixtures containing two WPA types, namely coarse WPA and fine WPA, treated with three liquid anti-stripping agents: amine-based agent (AS-Am), organosilane coupling-type adhesion promoter (AS-OS), and ester/surfactant-based wetting agent (AS-Es). The novelty of this study lies in selecting the anti-stripping system based on WPA–binder adhesion compatibility and validating it through moisture, rutting, rheological, and fracture performance. Binder bond strength, tensile bond strength, shear bond strength, indirect tensile strength/tensile strength ratio (ITS/TSR), Hamburg wheel tracking (HWT), multiple stress creep recovery (MSCR), and semi-circular bending (SCB) tests were conducted. AS-OS showed the best overall performance. It increased binder bond strength (BBS) by 52.8% for coarse WPA and 61.5% for fine WPA, while the optimum 0.5% dosage improved tensile bond strength by 81.0% and 97.2%, respectively. AS-OS also increased shear strength by 58.8–68.3% and improved TSR to 89.0% and 86.2%. In HWT, C-OS and F-OS reduced final rut depth by 44.0% and 45.8%, respectively. SCB results further showed higher fracture work, especially for F-OS. The findings indicate that proper anti-stripping chemistry is essential for durable WPA–SBS asphalt mixtures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Chemistry)
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30 pages, 7654 KB  
Article
Performance-Based Assessment of Pakistani Regional Aggregates for Flexible Pavements Using Macro- and Micro-Characterization
by Fazli Karim, Nasir Khan, Md Arifuzzaman and Muhammad Imran Khan
Materials 2026, 19(12), 2535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19122535 - 11 Jun 2026
Viewed by 249
Abstract
Aggregates comprise up to 95% of flexible pavement composition, critically influencing performance based on geological source and processing methods. In Pakistan, where approximately 264,175 km of roads carry 96% of inland freight, premium Margalla aggregates face increasing demand and depleting reserves, necessitating sustainable [...] Read more.
Aggregates comprise up to 95% of flexible pavement composition, critically influencing performance based on geological source and processing methods. In Pakistan, where approximately 264,175 km of roads carry 96% of inland freight, premium Margalla aggregates face increasing demand and depleting reserves, necessitating sustainable alternatives. This study comprehensively evaluates aggregates from five key quarries (Margalla, Malakand, Kohat, Swabi, and Besai) for highway suitability. Rigorous laboratory testing encompassed macro-level physical and mechanical properties and micro-characterization using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), alongside performance tests including Indirect Tensile Strength (ITS), rutting resistance, and fatigue analysis. Overall, Margalla aggregates exhibited the best performance, showing the lowest abrasion value (21%), highest Tensile Strength ratio (TSR) (82%), highest conditioned ITS (433.7 kPa), highest dynamic modulus (2120 MPa at 25 Hz), and the lowest rut depth (7.8 mm at 10,000 cycles). These superior properties are attributed to their favorable physical characteristics and high calcium content. Malakand and Kohat aggregates also demonstrated satisfactory performance, with TSR values of 79% and 76%, conditioned ITS values of 408.7 and 377.7 kPa, and rut depths of approximately 8.8 and 10.5 mm, respectively, indicating their suitability for medium-traffic pavements. In contrast, Swabi and Besai aggregates exhibited lower moisture resistance (TSR = 77% and 75%), lower conditioned ITS (355.7 and 337.7 kPa), and higher rut depths (~13.0 and 14.2 mm), making them less suitable for high-stress pavement layers. These findings support Malakand and Kohat aggregates as viable regional alternatives to Margalla. Full article
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32 pages, 4523 KB  
Article
Performance-Based Evaluation of Nanomaterials for Enhancing Moisture Damage Resistance in Asphalt Concrete
by Fatima Shamal Atiyah and Amjad H. Albayati
J. Compos. Sci. 2026, 10(6), 310; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs10060310 - 6 Jun 2026
Viewed by 753
Abstract
Moisture-induced damage is one of the primary causes of premature distress in asphalt pavements, leading to reduced service life and increased maintenance costs. Although nanomaterials have shown potential in enhancing asphalt performance, the underlying composite interaction mechanisms among nanomaterials, asphalt binder, and aggregate [...] Read more.
Moisture-induced damage is one of the primary causes of premature distress in asphalt pavements, leading to reduced service life and increased maintenance costs. Although nanomaterials have shown potential in enhancing asphalt performance, the underlying composite interaction mechanisms among nanomaterials, asphalt binder, and aggregate phases under moisture exposure are still not fully understood. In addition, comparative evaluations under consistent experimental conditions remain limited. This study investigates the influence of five nanomaterials: nano-silica (NS), nano-alumina (NA), nano-titanium dioxide (NT), nano-zinc oxide (NZ), and carbon nanotubes (CNT) on the physical and mechanical properties of asphalt binders and mixtures, with particular emphasis on moisture damage resistance. The nanomaterials were incorporated at dosages of 1.5%, 3.0%, 4.5%, and 6.0% by binder weight. Binder performance was evaluated using conventional and performance grading (PG) tests, while mixture performance was assessed through Marshall properties and moisture susceptibility indicators, including the tensile strength ratio (TSR) and the index of retained strength (IRS). Fluorescence microscopy (FM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed to investigate nanomaterial dispersion characteristics, microstructural morphology, and physicochemical interactions within the asphalt composite system. The results indicate that nanomaterial modification reduced penetration and increased softening point and Marshall stability, reflecting enhanced stiffness and thermal resistance, although ductility decreased at higher dosages. Significant improvements in moisture resistance were observed, particularly under conditioned states. The TSR increased from 81.2% for the control mixture to 92.4% for NS and 91.7% for NA, while the IRS improved from 72.7% to 88.5% for NS. Statistical analysis indicated that both nanomaterial type and dosage significantly affected TSR and IRS performance, with dosage exhibiting comparatively greater influence on moisture resistance improvement. FM and SEM analyses revealed comparatively better dispersion and lower agglomeration tendency for NS and NA, which corresponded to their superior moisture resistance performance. FTIR analysis indicated that the modification process was predominantly physical, with no major formation of new chemical functional groups. Among the investigated nano materials, NS at 6% dosage exhibited the most pronounced improvement, followed by NA at similar dosage levels. Overall, the findings suggest that nanomaterial modification can considerably improve the moisture resistance and mechanical performance of asphalt mixtures under laboratory conditions. However, higher nanomaterial dosages may adversely affect binder workability due to increased viscosity, particularly in CNT-modified binders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Composites Applications)
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23 pages, 2944 KB  
Article
Durability of Polymer-Modified Reclaimed Asphalt Mixtures Rejuvenated with Simulated Waste Cooking Oils from Palm, Soy, Olive, and Rice Oils
by Kyungnam Kim, Lee Ho Joung, PARK Jin Woo and Tri Ho Minh Le
Polymers 2026, 18(7), 833; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18070833 - 28 Mar 2026
Viewed by 842
Abstract
Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) from polymer-modified asphalt pavements often contains a recovered binder that is stiff and brittle, which reduces workability and increases durability risk. Waste cooking oil (WCO) is a promising circular rejuvenator, but its effectiveness remains inconsistent because oil source and [...] Read more.
Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) from polymer-modified asphalt pavements often contains a recovered binder that is stiff and brittle, which reduces workability and increases durability risk. Waste cooking oil (WCO) is a promising circular rejuvenator, but its effectiveness remains inconsistent because oil source and degradation state are often not well controlled, particularly in polymer-modified RAP systems. This study introduced a controlled simulated WCO approach and compared four oil sources (Palm, Soy, Olive, and Rice) as rejuvenators for recovered RAP binder and RAP mixtures. Simulated oils were added at 4% and 8% by mass of recovered RAP binder. The simulated WCOs produced clear dosage-dependent softening of the recovered binder. Penetration increased, while softening point and rotational viscosity decreased, indicating partial restoration of binder mobility and improved workability. At the mixture level, the 4% dosage provided the most balanced performance, improving moisture resistance and reducing Cantabro loss compared with the control mixture. Specifically, tensile strength ratio (TSR) increased from 75% to 80.9–83.7%, while Cantabro loss decreased from 19.8% to 13.2–14.6%, showing better cohesion and resistance to particle loss. However, Hamburg wheel tracking (HWT) results revealed strong oil-source dependence, with Soy showing the lowest rut depth and Olive the highest, indicating that excessive softening can reduce deformation resistance. The results demonstrate that controlled simulated WCO can support practical oil-source selection for polymer-modified RAP mixtures. A moderate dosage is more effective because it improves binder restoration and mixture durability without causing excessive softening, while rutting verification remains essential before field application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Chemistry)
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14 pages, 1411 KB  
Article
Enhancing the Durability of Bituminous Concrete Using Plastic Waste on Soft Rock Aggregates
by H. Laldintluanga, Zorinkima and Rebecca Ramhmachhuani
Polymers 2026, 18(7), 813; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18070813 - 27 Mar 2026
Viewed by 787
Abstract
The use of marginal sedimentary aggregates in pavement construction remains a major challenge in mountainous regions due to their high porosity, weak lamination planes, and susceptibility to moisture-induced deterioration. This study investigates the potential of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic waste to enhance the [...] Read more.
The use of marginal sedimentary aggregates in pavement construction remains a major challenge in mountainous regions due to their high porosity, weak lamination planes, and susceptibility to moisture-induced deterioration. This study investigates the potential of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic waste to enhance the engineering performance of laminated Miocene soft rock aggregates used in bituminous concrete. Aggregates sourced from the Surma Group (Bhuban Formation) in Mizoram, India, were characterized through physico-mechanical, geochemical, and mineralogical analyses to evaluate their durability and moisture sensitivity. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis revealed elevated feldspar and total alkali contents (≈5.15%), indicating a mineralogical composition prone to hydrophilic behavior and stripping within bituminous mixtures. To mitigate these limitations, aggregates were coated with varying proportions of LDPE plastic using the dry process. An optimum LDPE content of 9% by weight of aggregate produced significant improvements in aggregate performance, resulting in a 70.03% reduction in Aggregate Impact Value (from 17.72% to 5.31%), a decrease in Los Angeles Abrasion Value from 42.93% to 31.45%, and an 89.82% reduction in water absorption (from 4.52% to 0.46%). The polymer coating effectively sealed lamination planes and reduced moisture ingress within the sedimentary structure. Bituminous concrete mixtures incorporating LDPE were further evaluated using Marshall stability and indirect tensile strength tests. The addition of 1.1% LDPE by weight of mix significantly enhanced moisture resistance. For mixtures with nominal maximum aggregate sizes (NMASs) of 13 mm and 19 mm, the Tensile Strength Ratio (TSR) increased from 52.59% and 58.58% in the control mixtures to 82.81% and 87.10%, respectively, thereby satisfying the minimum requirement of 80% specified by MoRTH. The results indicate that LDPE functions as a hydrophobic barrier and structural sealant that improves binder–aggregate adhesion and prevents stripping along weak lamination planes. The findings demonstrate that LDPE-modified bituminous concrete provides a sustainable and technically viable strategy for upgrading marginal sedimentary aggregates into durable pavement materials while simultaneously promoting the beneficial reuse of plastic waste. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Polymer Materials for Pavement Applications)
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30 pages, 5342 KB  
Article
An Experimental Study on the Influence of Waste Tyre Metal Fibre on Asphalt Mixture’s Performance Properties
by Arsalaan Khan Yousafzai, Muslich Hartadi Sutanto, Nasir Khan, Jacob Adedayo Adedeji, Mongezi Mkhize and Nura Shehu Aliyu Yaro
Materials 2026, 19(5), 849; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19050849 - 25 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 636
Abstract
The disposal of waste tyres presents a significant environmental challenge, necessitating sustainable, high-value recycling solutions. This study explores the incorporation of waste tyre metal fibre (WTMF) into hot mix asphalt (HMA) to enhance mechanical performance while reducing landfill burden. WTMF-modified mixes containing 0%, [...] Read more.
The disposal of waste tyres presents a significant environmental challenge, necessitating sustainable, high-value recycling solutions. This study explores the incorporation of waste tyre metal fibre (WTMF) into hot mix asphalt (HMA) to enhance mechanical performance while reducing landfill burden. WTMF-modified mixes containing 0%, 0.375%, 0.75%, 1.125%, and 1.50% fibre were evaluated through Marshall and volumetric testing, indirect tensile strength (ITS) and tensile strength ratio (TSR) for moisture damage, stiffness modulus at varying temperatures, and fatigue life under cyclic loading. Microscopic analysis revealed WTMF’s irregular, rough surface with microcracks and pits, aiding crack-bridging and stress transfer. Marshall testing showed that the optimum binder content of WTMF-modified mixtures was approximately 5% higher than that of the control (conventional HMA without WTMF); however, stability decreased while flow increased, resulting in a reduced Marshall quotient due to fibre conglomeration affecting porosity and bulk specific gravity. ITS results indicated that the control mixture exhibited the highest cracking resistance, whereas WTMF-modified mixtures demonstrated improved moisture resistance (TSR > 80%). The maximum improvement was observed at 0.75% WTMF-induced HMA, with an 11% increase in TSR, while a slight reduction of 2.4% occurred at 1.50% WTMF-induced HMA. Stiffness testing showed that the mixture containing 0.375% WTMF achieved the highest modulus, exhibiting up to a 70% increase at 5 °C and more than a twofold increase at elevated temperatures compared to the control mixture. With increasing temperature, stiffness decreased by approximately 84% for the control mixture and 80% for the 0.375% WTMF-modified mixture. Fatigue analysis showed that the control mixture achieved a fatigue life of 115,529 loading cycles at low stress, followed by substantial reductions in fatigue life with increasing stress levels, whereas moderate WTMF contents improved strain performance; however, excessive fibre content increased permanent deformation under high stress. Stress- and strain-based empirical power-law relationships were established for predicting the fatigue life of each investigated mixture. Results demonstrate that WTMF’s controlled dosage within the optimum range of 0.375 to 0.75% has the potential to improve HMA’s performance indicators, offering a sustainable recycling pathway for waste tyres. Full article
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29 pages, 8015 KB  
Article
From Pre-Swelling to Performance Enhancement: Mechanisms and Effects of an Instant Ultra High-Performance Bituminous Material Modifier
by Yuanyuan Li, Haowen Ji, Chonghui Wang, Derun Zhang, Fu Wang, Gangping Jiang, Jiahui Deng and Junjie Ke
Materials 2026, 19(3), 633; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19030633 - 6 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 739
Abstract
To elucidate the modification and pre-swelling mechanisms of instant bituminous modifiers and their contribution to bituminous materials’ performance, this study investigates an instant ultra-high-performance bitumen modifier (SHVE-M). Fluorescence microscopy (FM), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), physical property tests, viscoelastic properties tests, dynamic shear rheometer [...] Read more.
To elucidate the modification and pre-swelling mechanisms of instant bituminous modifiers and their contribution to bituminous materials’ performance, this study investigates an instant ultra-high-performance bitumen modifier (SHVE-M). Fluorescence microscopy (FM), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), physical property tests, viscoelastic properties tests, dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), and mixture pavement performance tests were employed to systematically characterise the instant modified bitumen (SHVE-MB) and its mixture (SHVE-MBM). The results indicate that SHVE-M forms a stable “bitumen phase–polymer spherical phase” structure. ImageJ-win64 analysis revealed that SHVE-M exhibits a modifier area fraction of 46.68% and an average area fraction of 0.22‰, while SHVE-MB achieves a modifier area fraction of 17.54% and an average area fraction of 0.18‰. This morphology is supported by a large molecular size (LMS) content of 43% in SHVE-M. In terms of physical properties, the SHVE-MB (prepared via 10 min shearing) exhibited a penetration of 46.2 dmm, a softening point of 91.7 °C, and a ductility of 34.3 cm. These values are highly comparable to the conventional wet-process HVE-MB (prepared via 4 h maturation), with negligible differences of 0.5 dmm, 1.7 °C, and 1.4 cm, respectively. Quantitatively for viscoelasticity, SHVE-MB achieved a dynamic viscosity of 425,283.4 Pa·s at 60 °C and an elastic recovery rate of 92.1%, paralleling the 414,623.7 Pa·s and 93.6% of HVE-MB. Regarding mixture performance, the high-temperature dynamic stability (DS) of SHVE-MBM reached 7974 times/mm, approaching the 8256 times/mm of HVE-MBM. The water stability was excellent with a splitting tensile strength ratio (TSR) of 97.4% (vs. 98.0% for HVE-MBM). Furthermore, the low-temperature fracture toughness (KIC) reached 39.8 N/mm1.5, significantly outperforming SBS-MBM (27.9 N/mm1.5) and remaining close to HVE-MBM (43.9 N/mm1.5). These findings indicate that SHVE-MB effectively bridges the performance gap between instant and traditional high-viscosity modified bitumen, and the pre-swelling mechanism of SHVE-M is well characterized in this study. Full article
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18 pages, 3925 KB  
Article
Evaluating the Degree of Blending and Properties of Recycled Asphalt Mixtures Containing Fine Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement Particles Designed Across Different Methods
by Dong Liu, Hangcheng He, Yanyan Liu, Haidong Dong, Yining Zhang, Xiaoli Zhan, Mingchen Li and Huailei Cheng
Materials 2026, 19(3), 550; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19030550 - 30 Jan 2026
Viewed by 580
Abstract
Owing to certain inherent deficiencies in their properties, fine reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) particles have not yet been widely reused worldwide, resulting in significant environmental pollution and economic waste. Currently, a diverse array of design methods for asphalt mixes has been proposed. These [...] Read more.
Owing to certain inherent deficiencies in their properties, fine reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) particles have not yet been widely reused worldwide, resulting in significant environmental pollution and economic waste. Currently, a diverse array of design methods for asphalt mixes has been proposed. These methods can exert a varying influence on the degree of blending (DoB) and the performance of recycled hot-mix asphalt containing fine RAP particles, and some methods may be better suited for recycling fine RAP particles. However, the specific effects and differences among these various methods have yet to be fully revealed. Therefore, this research comprehensively explored these behaviors. Four distinct mix design formulations were investigated: the dense-graded Asphalt Concrete Group (Group AC), the Stone Mastic Asphalt Group (Group SMA), the High-modulus Asphalt Concrete Group (Group HMAC), and the rejuvenator-modified Asphalt Concrete Group (Group AC+Re). It can be found that the DoB and performance varied across different groups. The DoB spanned from 69% to 82%, with Group SMA showing the highest and Group HMAC exhibiting the lowest. The tensile strength ratio (TSR) of Group AC performed only 73.7%, failing to meet the specification threshold; nevertheless, this shortfall can be compensated by employing alternative methods or adding rejuvenator. Group HMAC exhibited the highest splitting-tensile strength and fracture energy. In addition, the incorporation of rejuvenator can enhance most performance of mixes. Some findings may provide a new perspective for the application of fine RAP particles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Materials in Highway Engineering)
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26 pages, 7908 KB  
Article
Experimental Investigation of Polymer-Modified Bituminous Stone Mastic Asphalt Mixtures Containing Cellulose Acetate Recycled from Cigarette Butts
by Hande Varol Morova and Cengiz Özel
Materials 2025, 18(23), 5340; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18235340 - 27 Nov 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1031
Abstract
Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) mixtures exhibit superior performance under traffic loads due to the high content of coarse aggregates; however, the high bitumen content also leads to the problem of bitumen drainage from the mixture. Several studies have been conducted on the use [...] Read more.
Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) mixtures exhibit superior performance under traffic loads due to the high content of coarse aggregates; however, the high bitumen content also leads to the problem of bitumen drainage from the mixture. Several studies have been conducted on the use of stabilizing additives such as fibers, polymers, or mineral fillers to reduce binder drainage in SMA mixtures. In this study, however, an innovative and sustainable solution was developed to address the bitumen drainage problem encountered in SMA pavements and to improve the long-term performance of the mixture. In this context, the feasibility of using cellulose acetate (SG) material recycled from cigarette butts as an alternative fiber additive to the traditionally used cellulose fiber (SL) was investigated. This method aims to achieve both environmental benefits in terms of waste management and economic advantages in terms of additive materials. Additionally, the effect of using different SL contents (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%) on mixture performance was examined. Within this scope, both pure bitumen (B) and Elvaloy RET + PPA (E)-modified bitumen (1.6%, 1.7%, and 1.8% Elvaloy RET + 0.2% PPA) were used to produce both fiber-reinforced and non-fiber-reinforced SMA mixtures. Traditional and Superpave tests were conducted to determine the rheological and physical properties of the pure and modified binders. All SMA specimens were tested for Marshall stability and flow, Marshall quotient, indirect tensile strength (ITS), tensile strength ratio (TSR), Schellenberg bitumen drainage, sand patch, and Cantabro particle loss. Furthermore, a cost analysis was carried out to evaluate the economic effect of different fiber types and proportions. Among the SMA mixtures, the highest stability and resistance to moisture damage were achieved in the mixtures containing 1.6% Elvaloy RET + 0.2% PPA with 0.3–0.4% SG and 1.7% Elvaloy RET + 0.2% PPA with 0.3–0.4% SL, while the optimum surface texture depth was obtained in the mixtures containing 1.6–1.7% Elvaloy RET + 0.2% PPA with 0.3% SG. In conclusion, the Elvaloy RET + PPA modification enhanced the aging resistance of the bitumen, while the SG fibers used at 0.3–0.4% fiber content in the 1.6–1.7% Elvaloy RET + 0.2% PPA-modified series were identified as a promising mechanical and economic alternative to conventional SL fibers. Full article
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30 pages, 4321 KB  
Article
Moisture and Cracking Performance of Hot-Mix Asphalt Incorporating Recycled Concrete Aggregates Under Prolonged Water-Immersion Aging
by Maribel Hernandez, Alexandra Ossa and Maribel Trujillo-Valladolid
Sustainability 2025, 17(22), 10187; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172210187 - 14 Nov 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1344
Abstract
Sustainable management of Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW) is key to the Circular Economy. Reusing crushed concrete as recycled concrete aggregates (RCAs) in hot-mix asphalt (HMA) is a viable CDW solution, although RCA’s high absorption can affect performance. This study evaluates the effect [...] Read more.
Sustainable management of Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW) is key to the Circular Economy. Reusing crushed concrete as recycled concrete aggregates (RCAs) in hot-mix asphalt (HMA) is a viable CDW solution, although RCA’s high absorption can affect performance. This study evaluates the effect of partially replacing 0%, 10%, and 30% of virgin aggregate with RCA in a dense-graded HMA, assessing its moisture susceptibility and cracking resistance. Specimens were subjected to long-term water-immersion aging (3 and 6 months at 25 °C) and tested for Indirect Tensile Strength (ITS), Tensile Strength Ratio (TSR), and Cracking Tolerance Index (CT-index). RCA incorporation consistently increased ITS at all aging levels. In particular, the 30% RCA mixtures exhibited the highest strength, exceeding the absolute ITS thresholds required by various U.S. transportation agencies to ensure structural capacity. While TSR values remained below the 80% AASHTO T 283 threshold, 10% and 30% RCA mixes had higher TSR than the control, indicating a comparative improvement in moisture resistance. Conversely, the CT-index decreased with more RCA and longer immersion, particularly at 30% RCA, revealing a trade-off between strength gain and cracking tolerance under prolonged wet exposure. Overall, a 10% RCA replacement level provided the most balanced performance, supporting its technical feasibility for sustainable, performance-based mixture design. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)
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19 pages, 3652 KB  
Article
Influence of Coarse Aggregate Geometry and Mineral Composition on the Durability of Asphalt Concrete
by Hussein K. Mohammad, Amjad H. Albayati and Mazen J. Al-Kheetan
Infrastructures 2025, 10(10), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/infrastructures10100263 - 4 Oct 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1702
Abstract
The durability of asphalt concrete is highly dependent on the geometry and mineralogy of coarse aggregates, yet their combined influence on mechanical and moisture resistance properties is still not fully understood. This study evaluates the effects of coarse aggregate geometry, specifically flat and [...] Read more.
The durability of asphalt concrete is highly dependent on the geometry and mineralogy of coarse aggregates, yet their combined influence on mechanical and moisture resistance properties is still not fully understood. This study evaluates the effects of coarse aggregate geometry, specifically flat and elongated particle ratios and angularity, as well as mineral composition (quartz versus calcite), on asphalt mixture durability. The durability of mixtures was evaluated through Marshall properties as well as moisture susceptibility indicators, including the tensile strength ratio (TSR) and index of retained strength (IRS). Statistical analyses (ANOVA and t-tests) were also conducted to confirm the significance of the observed effects. Results showed that mixtures containing higher proportions of flat and elongated particles exhibited greater void content, reduced stability, and weaker moisture resistance, with the 1:5 flat-to-elongated ratio showing the most adverse impact (TSR 73.9%, IRS 69.2%). Conversely, increasing coarse aggregate angularity (CAA) enhanced mixture performance, with TSR values rising from 63.5% at 0% angularity to 81.2% at 100% angularity, accompanied by corresponding improvements in IRS. Mineral composition analysis further demonstrated that calcite-based aggregates achieved stronger bonding with asphalt binder and superior resistance to stripping compared to quartz-based ones. These findings confirm that aggregate geometry and mineralogy exert a decisive influence on asphalt mixture durability. They also highlight the need to revise current specifications that permit the use of uncrushed coarse aggregate in asphalt base courses, particularly when such layers may serve as surface courses in suburban or low-volume roads, where long-term resistance to moisture damage is critical. Full article
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22 pages, 1344 KB  
Article
Effect of Nanoclay on the Performance Characteristics of SBS-Modified Asphalt Concrete Mixtures
by Asmat Khan, Sarfraz Ahmed, Naqeeb Ullah Khattak, Menglim Hoy and Chamroeun Se
Coatings 2025, 15(9), 984; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15090984 - 22 Aug 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1925
Abstract
This study examined the synergistic effects of Styrene–Butadiene–Styrene (SBS) polymer and nanoclay on asphalt concrete mixture performance through a systematic experimental program using 4.5% SBS with varying nanoclay concentrations (0–8%). Performance evaluation included Indirect Tensile Strength (ITS), Indirect Tensile Resilient Modulus (ERI [...] Read more.
This study examined the synergistic effects of Styrene–Butadiene–Styrene (SBS) polymer and nanoclay on asphalt concrete mixture performance through a systematic experimental program using 4.5% SBS with varying nanoclay concentrations (0–8%). Performance evaluation included Indirect Tensile Strength (ITS), Indirect Tensile Resilient Modulus (ERI), and Hamburg Wheel Tracking Tests (HWTT), along with novel quantitative analysis of visco-plastic and moisture resistance indices. Results demonstrated that 4.5% SBS with 6% nanoclay (4.5S6N) yielded optimal performance, achieving 38% increase in dry ITS, 68% improvement in wet ITS, and enhanced moisture resistance with Tensile strength Ratio (TSR) improving from 79.53% to 97.14%. The ERI value increased by 39%, while rutting resistance improved by 39.3%. At this optimal concentration, nanoclay’s uniform dispersion and layered silicate structure created an effective reinforcement network, enhancing stress distribution and interfacial bonding with the SBS polymer network and asphalt components. However, exceeding 6% nanoclay content led to performance deterioration due to particle agglomeration. These findings demonstrate that optimized SBS–nanoclay modification effectively addresses both mechanical and moisture-related performance requirements for modern pavement applications. Full article
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18 pages, 4110 KB  
Article
Characterization of Asphalt Binder and Mixture for Enhanced Railway Applications
by Ilho Na, Hyemin Park, Jihyeon Yun, Ju Dong Park and Hyunhwan Kim
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3265; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143265 - 10 Jul 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 922
Abstract
Although asphalt mixtures can be applied to railway tracks due to their viscoelastic properties, caution is required, as their ductility and brittleness are highly sensitive to temperature variations. In recent years, interest in the application of asphalt in railway infrastructure has increased, driven [...] Read more.
Although asphalt mixtures can be applied to railway tracks due to their viscoelastic properties, caution is required, as their ductility and brittleness are highly sensitive to temperature variations. In recent years, interest in the application of asphalt in railway infrastructure has increased, driven by the development of modified mixtures and the broader availability of performance-enhancing additives. Additionally, evaluation methods for railway tracks should be adapted to account for the distinct loading mechanisms involved, which differ from those of conventional roadways. In this study, the comprehensive properties of asphalt binders, mixtures, and testing methods—including physical and engineering characteristics—were assessed to improve the performance of asphalt concrete layers for potential applications in railroad infrastructure. The results of this study indicate that (1) the higher the performance grade (PG), the higher the indirect tensile strength (ITS) value achieved by the 13 mm mixture using PG76-22, which is higher than that of the PG64-22 mixture. This indicates that higher PG grades and modification contribute to improved tensile strength, beneficial for upper layers subjected to dynamic railroad loads. (2) The tensile strength ratio (TSR) increased from the unmodified mixture to over 92% in mixtures containing crumb rubber modifier (CRM) and styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (STE), demonstrating enhanced durability under freeze–thaw conditions. (3) Wheel tracking test results showed that modified mixtures exhibited more than twice the rutting resistance compared to PG64-22. The 13 mm aggregate mixtures also generally performed better than the 19 mm mixtures, indicating reduced permanent deformation under repeated loading. (4) It was concluded that asphalt is a suitable material for railroads, as its overall characteristics comply with standard specifications. Full article
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Article
Influence of Coal Bottom Ash as Fine Aggregate Replacement on the Mechanical Properties of Stone Mastic Asphalt
by Syakirah Afiza Mohammed, Suhana Koting, Ali Mohammed Babalghaith, Mohd Hafizan Md. Isa and Faridah Hanim Khairuddin
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 6826; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15126826 - 17 Jun 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2279
Abstract
Coal bottom ash (CBA) is a waste produced by burning coal that presents possible hazards to human well-being and the environment. Rapid economic expansion has increased the utilisation of CBA, resulting in a crisis concerning the disposal of this waste. By employing waste [...] Read more.
Coal bottom ash (CBA) is a waste produced by burning coal that presents possible hazards to human well-being and the environment. Rapid economic expansion has increased the utilisation of CBA, resulting in a crisis concerning the disposal of this waste. By employing waste as a replacement for natural materials, it is possible to achieve sustainable and environmentally friendly construction. This study assesses the effects of utilising CBA waste as a replacement for fine aggregate in stone mastic asphalt (SMA) pavement. Seven asphalt mixture proportions were designed, each of which employed a different percentage of CBA (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 100%) as a fine aggregate replacement. The performance tests conducted in this research were the Cantabro durability test, resilient modulus test, dynamic creep test, and moisture susceptibility test. The findings showed an improvement in the durability and resistance to permanent deformation of the SMA mixtures with 30% and 50% CBA replacement, respectively. However, further increases in the CBA content caused a decrease in the durability and resistance to permanent deformation. Meanwhile, the stiffness and tensile strength ratio (TSR) value decrease with the use of CBA replacement at any percentage. However, the TSR value of the SMA mixtures with 50% or less CBA replacement was more than 80%, which meets the minimum requirement set by JKR. In conclusion, incorporating CBA into SMA mixture has a positive effect on certain mechanical properties, particularly its durability and resistance to permanent deformation at optimal replacement levels, highlighting its potential to be used as a sustainable material in asphalt pavement construction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Materials for Asphalt Pavements)
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