Characterization and assessment of aerogel-modified asphalt binders

Conventional asphalt has been used along the time with relatively satisfactory performance. However better performance in terms of development, environment, and economic benefits needs to be addressed. Asphalt binder modification has been one of the most common methods to improve the performance of bitumen over time. The objective of this study is to provide insight into the modification of asphalt binders to reduce thermal cycling by introducing Aerogel. Several tests were conducted including Softening Point (SP), Rotational Viscosity (RV), Dynamic Shear Modulus (G*), Multiple Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR), Flexural Creep Stiffness (BBR), Binder Bond Strength (BBS), and Thermal Conductivity (TC) tests. The response of five aerogel products was assessed based on performance. The outcomes of this study were encouraging and promising. Thermal resistance properties and cost per kilogram of each product were used to determine the more suitable aerogel product for further utilisation. The addition of aerogel reduced the susceptibility to damaging thermal effects of bitumen, reducing the permanent deformation and thermal cracking potential. However, the implementation of aerogel in binder must be enhanced to overcome the workability and safety concerns, which restrict the feasibility of its usage.