Developing an Environmentally Friendly Semi Warm Asphalt Pave-ment Mix Using Polymers and Nanocomposite Materials

Abstract

Road networks are commonly built using hot mix asphalt (HMA). The aim of the sustainable asphalt pavement industry is to reduce gas emissions and mixing temperatures. Half-warm mix asphalt (HWMA) is seen as a viable alternative to HMA, as it is produced and mixed at lower temperatures ranging from 65 to 100 degrees Celsius. Additives are necessary for improving workability during mixing and compaction. This research focuses on developing HWMA at 90 degrees Celsius using nanocomposite materials such as Ethoxylated Nonyl Phenol (NP9), Advera, Natural Zeolite, and Synthetic Zeolite. Chemicals like Epoxy, Zinc oxide, and sytric acid are added in specific percentages by weight of bitumen. The study found that the stability of the Marshall test improved with the use of nanocomposite materials. The optimal percentages of NP9, Advera, Natural Zeolite, and Synthetic Zeolite were determined to be 10%, 0.35%, 0.4%, and 0.5% respectively. Synthetic Zeolite was identified as the most effective material for enhancing asphalt mixture stability and producing eco-friendly HWMA. By using 0.5% Synthetic Zeolite, 5% Epoxy, and 10% Sytric, an eco-friendly HWMA with maximum stability was achieved.