Comprehensive Assessment of Nano-Silica Modified Asphalt Mixtures: Influence of RAP Content, Aging, and Performance Characteristics

Document Type : Regular Paper

Authors

1 Ph.D. Candidate, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran

2 Professor, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran

3 Department of Civil Engineering, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran

Abstract

Using recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) in asphalt mixtures is common for improving sustainability, but it can lower performance because of the aging and hardening of RAP binder. Aged RAP is stiffer, less flexible, and more prone to cracking. The performance decreases with the age of RAP. Adding materials like nano-materials can help reduce these issues. This study investigates the combined impact of RAP content, RAP age, and Nano-silica (SiO₂) on asphalt performance, focusing on fracture resistance, fatigue resistance, and moisture susceptibility. Asphalt mixtures with 25%, 50%, and 75% RAP were tested using two types of RAPs with different ages (5 and 10 years). Nano-SiO₂ was added in varying percentages (0%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2%) to evaluate its effects. The performance was assessed using the semi-circular bending test for fracture resistance, the indirect tensile fatigue test for fatigue resistance, and the tensile strength ratio (TSR) test for moisture susceptibility. Results showed that Nano-SiO₂ improved the fracture and fatigue resistance of mixtures, especially those with lower RAP content. At 25% RAP, the addition of 1.5% and 2% Nano-SiO₂ enhanced fracture and fatigue resistance by 15-20%. For mixtures with 50% and 75% RAP, Nano-SiO₂ led to significant improvements, with the best results seen at 2% nano-silica. Nano-SiO₂ also enhanced moisture resistance, increasing TSR values above the 80% threshold. Nano-silica mitigated the effects of aging, particularly in mixtures with higher RAP content. According to this comprehensive evaluation, it is recommended to use 25-50% of RAP using 1.5% of Nano-SiO₂ to achieve high-performance mixtures.

Graphical Abstract

Comprehensive Assessment of Nano-Silica Modified Asphalt Mixtures: Influence of RAP Content, Aging, and Performance Characteristics

Highlights

  • Investigates the impact of RAP content, RAP age, and Nano-Silica (SiO₂).
  • Nano-SiO₂ improved fracture and fatigue resistance, especially at lower RAP content.
  • At 25% 5-years-old RAP, 1.5% and 2% Nano-SiO₂ enhanced resistance by 15-20%.
  • For 50% and 75% RAP, best results occurred with 2% Nano-SiO₂.
  • Nano-SiO₂ also increased moisture resistance, raising TSR values above 80%.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 27 January 2025
  • Revise Date: 22 February 2025
  • Accept Date: 03 March 2025

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