Carbon nanotube modified asphalt binders for sustainable roadways

Abstract

Asphalt binders are usually modified using several modifiers such as polymers, acid, lime, anti-stripping chemicals, and carbon fibers in order to improve binder properties such as durability, adhesion, cohesion, and performance in service. Among the properties, adhesion is key to understanding moisture damage behavior of asphalt binder. Moisture damage in asphalt is yet an unsolved problem in pavement engineering. In this study, microscopic images of adhesion force in carbon nanotube modified asphalt binders is determined using an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). Moisture damage predictions are made based the adhesion forces affected by the amount of single-wall and multi-wall carbon nanotubes. It is hoped that this study will be useful for using carbon nanotube and nanoscale testing in creating new and durable pavement materials for sustainable infrastructures.