Application of Rejuvenators in Asphalt Binders: Classification and Micro- and Macro-Properties
Source abstract
Abstract
Rejuvenating aged asphalt is critical for sustainable road construction and resource utilization. This paper systematically reviews the current research on rejuvenators, focusing on their classification and the micro-, and macro-properties of rejuvenated asphalt. Rejuvenators are categorized into mineral oil-based, bio-based, and compound types. Each type offers distinct advantages in recovering the performance of aged asphalt. Mineral oil-based rejuvenators primarily enhance low-temperature cracking resistance through physical dilution, while bio-based rejuvenators demonstrate superior environmental sustainability and stability. Compound rejuvenators, particularly those incorporating reactive compounds, show the best results in repairing degraded polymer modifiers and improving both low- and high-temperature properties of aged, modified asphalt. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Fluorescence Microscopy (FM), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) have been applied to analyze the micro-properties of rejuvenated asphalt. These techniques have revealed that rejuvenators can restore the microstructure of aged asphalt by dispersing agglomerated asphaltenes and promoting molecular mobility. Functional groups and molecular weight changes, characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), indicate that rejuvenators effectively reduce oxidation products and molecular weight of aged asphalt, restoring its physicochemical properties. Macro-property evaluations show that rejuvenators significantly improve penetration, ductility, and fatigue resistance. Finally, this review identifies the key characteristics and challenges associated with rejuvenator applications and provides an outlook on future research directions.
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Research context
OpenAlex topics: Asphalt Pavement Performance Evaluation · Infrastructure Maintenance and Monitoring · Concrete and Cement Materials Research
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Key Laboratory for Special Area Highway Engineering of Ministry of Education, Chang’an University, South 2nd Ring Road Middle Section, Xi’an 710064, China
School of Highway, Chang’an University, South 2nd Ring Road Middle Section, Xi’an 710064, China
Funding
Key Research and Development Program of Shaanxi, China · Spring Sunshine Program of the Ministry of Education of China · Key Laboratory of Road and Traffic Engineering of the Ministry of Education, Tongji University · Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities, CHD · Scientific Innovation Practice Project of Postgraduates of Chang’an University
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