Enhancing High-Modulus Asphalt Mixture Performance: The Role of Nano-ZnO and SBS Additives in Bitumen Modification

Document Type : Regular Paper

Authors

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

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

3 Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran

Abstract

This study explores enhancing high-modulus asphalt mixture (HMAM) performance with commonly used bitumen with a penetration grade of 60/70 instead of a low penetration grade. To achieve the desired stiffness and mitigate thermal cracking, three dosages of 3.5, 4.2, and 4.9% of zinc oxide (Nano-ZnO) and three dosages of 3.2, 3.7, 4.2% of styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) were incorporated as additives. Comprehensive performance tests were conducted, including BBR, LAS, and MSCR for bitumen, alongside low-temperature SCB and moisture susceptibility tests for the asphalt mixture. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA was performed to validate the results. The findings revealed that gap-graded asphalt mixtures alone did not yield HMAM; however, Nano-ZnO (3.5, 4.2, and 4.9%) and SBS (3.2, 3.7, and 4.2%) additives significantly improved dynamic modulus and produced HMAM. Based on the flexural creep stiffness and m-value results, the modified bitumen ones exhibited superior low-temperature performance; generally, at least a 30% improvement in mixture performance has been achieved. Moreover, these additives improved damage resistance and fatigue performance, which can be interpreted by demonstrating enhanced orderliness and reduced polar component accumulation. Elastic recovery and non-recoverable creep compliance were notably improved through the modification process, indicating better resistance to both elastic and permanent deformations. Additionally, the modifications enhanced fracture properties and moisture resistance. The optimal percentages for Nano-ZnO and SBS are suggested to be 4.2% and 3.2%, respectively, underscoring their significant benefits in enhancing the performance of HMAM by improving the physical properties of bitumen, reducing its solubility parameter, and increasing compatibility with SBS.

Graphical Abstract

Enhancing High-Modulus Asphalt Mixture Performance: The Role of Nano-ZnO and SBS Additives in Bitumen Modification

Highlights

  • Dynamic modulus of asphalt mixture increased with 4.2% ZnO and 3.2% SBS blend.
  • ZnO and SBS improved the bitumen performance against rutting and fatigue distress.
  • Better resistance to fatigue and low-temperature cracking using ZnO and SBS in HMAM.
  • Improved adhesion and moisture resistance with ZnO and SBS in HMAM.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

[1]     Mahpour A, Khodadadi M, Moghadas Nejadd F. Investigation the Moisture Susceptibility of Warm-Mix Asphalt Modified with Nano-TiO2 and Waste Rubber Granules. J Transp Res 2023;20:55–70.
[2]     Nejad FM, Noory A, Khodadadi M. The shear bonding of interlayer’s effect on rutting parameters of an asphalt overlay. Geosynth. Lead. W. to a Resilient Planet, CRC Press; 2023, p. 1233–40.
[3]     Khodadadi M, Azarhoosh A, Moghaddas Nejad F, Khodaii A. Investigation of the Moisture Susceptibility of Nanocomposite-Modified Asphalt Mixture Using Surface Free Energy Theory. AUT J Civ Eng 2021;5:287–300.
[4]     Khodadadi M, Moradi L, Dabir B, Nejad FM, Khodaii A. Reuse of drill cuttings in hot mix asphalt mixture: A study on the environmental and structure performance. Constr Build Mater 2020;256:119453.
[5]     Petho L, Beecroft A, Griffin J, Denneman E. High modulus high fatigue resistance asphalt (EME2) technology transfer. 2014.
[6]     Petho L, Bryant P. High modulus asphalt (EME2) pavement design in Queensland. AAPA Int. Flex. Pavements Conf. 16th, 2015, Gold Coast, Queensland, Aust., 2015.
[7]     Olard F, Dherbecourt J, Dumont H. GB5: Eco-friendly alternative to EME2 for long-life and cost-effective base courses. Eur Roads Rev 2012.
[8]     Olard F, Perraton D. On the optimization of the aggregate packing for the design of self-blocking high-performance asphalts. Congr. Int. Soc. Asph. Pavements, Nagoya, vol. 5, 2010.
[9]     Gajewski M, Bańkowski W, Pronk AC. Evaluation of fatigue life of high modulus asphalt concrete with use of three different definitions. Int J Pavement Eng 2020;21:1717–28.
[10]   Petho L, Bryant P, Jones J, Denneman E. EME2 pavement and mix design. Road Transp Res A J Aust New Zeal Res Pract 2016;25:3–14.
[11]    Denneman E, Petho L, Verhaeghe BMJA, Komba JJ, Steyn W, Vos R, et al. High modulus asphalt (EME) technology transfer to South Africa and Australia: shared experiences 2015.
[12]   Khodadadi M, Khodaii A, Absi J, Hajikarimi P, Tehrani FF. Multi-Length-Scale Investigation of the Fatigue Behavior of Bituminous Composites, I: Experimental Approach. J Mater Civ Eng 2024. https://doi.org/10.1061/JMCEE7/MTENG-19135.
[13]   Khodadadi M, Khodaii A, Absi J, Tehrani FF, Hajikarimi P. An experimental length scale investigation on viscoelastic behavior of bituminous composites: Focusing on mortar scale. Constr Build Mater 2021;308:124766. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2021.124766.
[14]   Diefenderfer BK, Maupin Jr GW. Field trials of high-modulus high-binder-content base layer hot-mix asphalt mixtures. 2010.
[15]   Pouget S, Olard F, Hammoum F. GB5®mix design: a new approach for aggregate grading optimization for heavy duty flexible pavements. 8th RILEM Int. Conf. Mech. Crack. Debonding Pavements, 2016, p. 17–23.
[16]   Mangiafico S, Sauzéat C, Di Benedetto H, Pouget S, Olard F, Planque L, et al. Statistical analysis of influence of mix design parameters on mechanical properties of mixes with reclaimed asphalt pavement. Transp Res Rec 2014;2445:29–38.
[17]   Lee HJ, Lee JH, Park HM. Performance evaluation of high modulus asphalt mixtures for long life asphalt pavements. Constr Build Mater 2007;21:1079–87.
[18]   Moreno-Navarro F, Sol-Sánchez M, Tomás-Fortún E, Rubio-Gámez MC. High-modulus asphalt mixtures modified with acrylic fibers for their use in pavements under severe climate conditions. J Cold Reg Eng 2016;30:4016003.
[19]   Mahpour A, Khodadadi M, Shahraki M, Moghadas Nejad F. Evaluation of Moisture Durability of Modified Asphalt Mixture with Nano-Titanium Dioxide Using Surface Free Energy Method. Amirkabir J Civ Eng 2022;54:2831–50. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/ 10.22060/ceej.2021.19458.7180.
[20]   Khodadadi M, Moghadas Nejad F, Khodaii A. Comparison of Rut Susceptibility Parameters in Modified Bitumen with PPA. AUT J Civ Eng 2017;1:129–34.
[21]   Xie X, Hui T, Luo Y, Li H, Li G, Wang Z. Research on the Properties of Low Temperature and Anti-UV of Asphalt with Nano-ZnO/Nano-TiO2/Copolymer SBS Composite Modified in High-Altitude Areas. Adv Mater Sci Eng 2020;2020:9078731.
[22]   Su M, Si C, Zhang Z, Zhang H. Molecular dynamics study on influence of Nano-ZnO/SBS on physical properties and molecular structure of asphalt binder. Fuel 2020;263:116777.
[23]   Chen X, Wen P, Ji Q, Jiang S, Zhou Z, Wang A, et al. Adhesion of Nano-ZnO Modified Asphalt and Its Influence on Moisture-Sensitive Properties of Mixtures. Adv Mater Sci Eng 2023;2023:8888248.
[24]   Kamboozia N, Rad SM, Saed SA. Laboratory Investigation of the Effect of Nano-ZnO on the Fracture and Rutting Resistance of Porous Asphalt Mixture under the Aging Condition and Freeze – Thaw Cycle 2022;34:1–17. https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)MT.1943-5533.0004187.
[25]   Zhang D, Chen Z, Zhang H, Wei C. Rheological and anti-aging performance of SBS modified asphalt binders with different multi-dimensional nanomaterials. Constr Build Mater 2018;188:409–16.
[26]   AASHTO PP. The laboratory evaluation of modified asphalt systems. Am Assoc State Highw Transp Off 1993.
[27]   Ghanizadeh AR. An optimization model for design of asphalt pavements based on IHAP code number 234. Adv Civ Eng 2016;2016:5942342.
[28]   M.M. Design, Marshall Mix Design 26.1, NPTEL May 24. (2006) 1–7. n.d.
[29]   Astm D. 2872: Standard test method for effect of heat and air on a moving film of asphalt (rolling thin-film oven test). Am Soc Test Mater West Conshohocken, PA 2012.
[30]   Test O. Accelerated aging of asphalt binder using a pressurized aging vessel (PAV) 2012.
[31]   ASTM D. Standard test method for determining the flexural creep stiffness of asphalt binder using the bending beam rheometer (BBR), 2008.
[32]   Timoshenko S. Elementary theory and problems. Van Nostrand; 1940.
[33]   Liu S, Cao W, Shang S, Qi H, Fang J. Analysis and application of relationships between low-temperature rheological performance parameters of asphalt binders. Constr Build Mater 2010;24:471–8.
[34]   Zeng Z ‘Alan,’ Underwood BS, Castorena C. Low-temperature performance grade characterisation of asphalt binder using the dynamic shear rheometer. Int J Pavement Eng 2022;23:811–23.
[35]   Test FO. Estimating damage tolerance of asphalt binders using the linear amplitude sweep. AASHTO TP 2010:101–14.
[36]   AASHTO T. Standard method of test for determining dynamic modulus of hot-mix asphalt (HMA). Am Assoc State Highw Transp Off Washington, DC 2011;444.
[37]   Capitão S, Picado-Santos L. Applications, properties and design of high modulus bituminous mixtures. Road Mater Pavement Des 2006;7:103–17.
[38]   Lim IL, Johnston IW, Choi SK, Boland JN. Fracture testing of a soft rock with semi-circular specimens under three-point bending. Part 1—mode I. Int. J. rock Mech. Min. Sci. Geomech. Abstr., vol. 31, 1994, p. 185–97.
[39]   Li X, Marasteanu M. The fracture process zone in asphalt mixture at low temperature. Eng Fract Mech 2010;77:1175–90.
[40]   Recommendation RD. Determination of the fracture energy of mortar and concrete by means of three-point bend tests on notched beams. Mater Struct 1985;18:285–90.
[41]   Shafabakhsh G, Sadeghnejad M, Ebrahimnia R. Fracture resistance of asphalt mixtures under mixed-mode I/II loading at low-temperature: Without and with nano SiO2. Constr Build Mater 2021;266:120954. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2020.120954.
[42]   Aragao FTS, Kim Y-R. Characterization of fracture properties of asphalt mixtures based on cohesive zone modeling and digital image correlation technique. 2011.
[43]   AASHTO T. 283 Resistance of Compacted Bituminous Mixture to Moisture Induced Damage. Am Assocation State Hishw Transp Off 1998.
[44]   Guo G, Zhang H. The effect of morphology of ZnO particle on properties of asphalt binder and mixture. Int J Transp Sci Technol 2022;11:437–54.
[45]   Zhang H, Su M, Zhao S, Zhang Y, Zhang Z. High and low temperature properties of nano-particles/polymer modified asphalt. Constr Build Mater 2016;114:323–32.
[46]   Xu X, Guo H, Wang X, Zhang M, Wang Z, Yang B. Physical properties and anti-aging characteristics of asphalt modified with nano-zinc oxide powder. Constr Build Mater 2019;224:732–42.
[47]   Duan H, Zhang H, Lv S, Lu W, Ge D, Jiang R, et al. Revealing aging behavior retarding mechanism of zinc oxide/expanded vermiculite composite modified bituminous mixture. Constr Build Mater 2025;468:140388.
[48]   Behnood A, Gharehveran MM. Morphology, rheology, and physical properties of polymer-modified asphalt binders. Eur Polym J 2019;112:766–91.
[49]   Shi X, Goh SW, Akin M, Stevens S, You Z. Exploring the interactions of chloride deicer solutions with nanomodified and micromodified asphalt mixtures using artificial neural networks. J Mater Civ Eng 2012;24:805–15.
[50]   Esmaeili N, Hamedi GH, Khodadadi M. Determination of the stripping process of asphalt mixtures and the effective mix design and SFE parameters on its different phases. Constr Build Mater 2019;213. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2019.04.043.
[51]   Khodadadi M, Azarhoosh A, Khodaii A. Influence of polymeric coating the aggregate surface on moisture damage of hot mix asphalt. Period Polytech Civ Eng 2021;65:376–84. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.3311/PPci.14340.
[52]   Angili SN, Morovvati MR, Kardan-Halvaei M, Saber-Samandari S, Razmjooee K, Abed AM, et al. Fabrication and finite element simulation of antibacterial 3D printed Poly L-lactic acid scaffolds coated with alginate/magnesium oxide for bone tissue regeneration. Int J Biol Macromol 2023;224:1152–65.
[53]   Qian WM, Vahid MH, Sun YL, Heidari A, Barbaz-Isfahani R, Saber-Samandari S, et al. Investigation on the effect of functionalization of single-walled carbon nanotubes on the mechanical properties of epoxy glass composites: Experimental and molecular dynamics simulation. J Mater Res Technol 2021;12:1931–45. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmrt.2021.03.104.
[54]   Office JE, Chen J, Dan H, Ding Y, Gao Y, Guo M, et al. New innovations in pavement materials and engineering: A review on pavement engineering research 2021. J Traffic Transp Eng (English Ed 2021;8:815–999.
[55]   Khodadadi M, Khodaii A, Hajikarimi P, Fakhari Tehrani F, Absi J. Multi-Scale Numerical Viscoelastic Simulation of Fatigue Behavior of Asphalt Mixtures Modified with Polyphosphoric Acid. IOP Conf. Ser. Mater. Sci. Eng., vol. 416, 2018. https://doi.org/10.1088/1757-899X/416/1/012106.
[56]   Hamedi GH, Azarhoosh AZ, Khodadadi M. Effects of asphalt binder modifying with polypropylene on moisture susceptibility of asphalt mixtures with thermodynamically concepts. Period Polytech Civ Eng 2018;62. https://doi.org/10.3311/PPci.11570.
[57]   Mahpour A, Alipour S, Khodadadi M, Khodaii A, Absi J. Leaching and mechanical performance of rubberized warm mix asphalt modified through the chemical treatment of hazardous waste materials. Constr Build Mater 2023;366:130184. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2022.130184.

Files

History

  • Receive Date: 29 April 2025
  • Revise Date: 31 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 17 August 2025

Share

How to cite

Statistics