Date of Award
Fall 2024
Project Type
Thesis
Program or Major
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Degree Name
Master of Science
First Advisor
Jo Sias
Second Advisor
Eshan Dave
Third Advisor
Mohamed Elshaer
Abstract
The Utilization of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) has become a pivotal strategy for improving infrastructure sustainability. However, with a high RAP content included in the pavement material, the aged asphalt will decline the mechanical properties of the flexible pavement and thus decrease the durability. Recycling agents (RAs) are products with chemical and physical characteristics designed to restore the rheological properties of reclaimed asphalt material and improve the performance of recycled asphalt mixtures with high RAP content that promote economic and environmental benefits. Plenty of the RA products are proven effective once blended with asphalt; however, the long-term effect of the RAs on the pavement time remains uncertain. This research aims to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of asphalt mix recycling agents (RAs) integrated into pavement structures, leveraging laboratory properties and field performance at different aging levels to provide a long-term evaluation of the RAs. To fulfill this research goal, the asphalt mixture properties, simulating aging via established laboratory asphalt aging protocols, are compared with the field core properties sampled from the field sections over multiple years. Laboratory tests such as the Complex Modulus Test, Direct Tension Fatigue Test (DTCF), Illinois Flexibility Test (I-FIT), and Disk-Shaped Compact Tension (DCT) Test are conducted to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the recycled asphalt mixtures in terms of rheology, low-temperature, and intermediate-temperature cracking properties. Results indicate that while some RAs show immediate benefits, their effectiveness diminishes over time respect to control mixtures. Ultimately, this thesis aims to furnish road agencies with reliable data on RA performance, assisting in formulating more sustainable and economically viable asphalt pavements. The findings are anticipated to influence future decisions regarding pavement maintenance and rehabilitation, emphasizing the critical role of RAs in the longevity and durability of road surfaces.
Recommended Citation
Wang, Zheng, "EVALUATING THE LONG-TERM PERFORMANCE OF RECYCLING AGENTS IN HIGH-RAP CONTENT ASPHALT MIXTURES" (2024). Master's Theses and Capstones. 1903.
https://scholars.unh.edu/thesis/1903