Mechanical performance evaluation of cementitious stabilized recycled asphalt aggregate materials incorporating zeolite/alkaline metals nanotechnology-based additive

The high carbon footprint of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) has driven interest in sustainable pavement construction alternatives. This study explored the effectiveness of enhancing OPC with a nanotechnology-based additive, RoadCem (RC), in full-depth reclamation (FDR) applications. Extensive laboratory analysis evaluated compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths, resilient modulus, durability of FDR mixtures, and the microstructure of raw materials. Results showed a 39% increase in unconfined compressive strength (UCS) with the OPC/RC combination. ANOVA tests indicated statistically significant individual and interactive effects of FDR components on UCS (p-values < 0.0001). Increasing RC content at 3%OPC notably improved tensile and flexural strengths and modulus by up to 44%, 47%, and 39%, respectively. Microstructure analysis revealed the potential of RC to modify OPC hydration chemistry by promoting longer needle-like crystals, enhancing interfacial bonding and matrix density. A cost analysis revealed 37% savings when using OPC/RC combination, highlighting the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of RC modifier.