Performance-based laboratory evaluation of asphaltic mixture containing asphalt binder-Carbon Nano Tube composite

This research work aimed to evaluate the effect of CNT on the performance of asphaltic mixture. CNT-asphalt binder composite was initially prepared at different CNT dosages (0%, 0.4%, 0.75%, 1.5%, and 2.25% by the weight of asphalt binder). The effect of CNT on the workability of asphaltic mixture was evaluated with the help of compaction data. The change in compaction densification index indicated that such an addition will have a negative impact on the workability of asphaltic mixture. Similarly, the strain response and flow number obtained from the dynamic creep test at 50°C indicated that the addition of CNT will help in improving the rutting performance. Likewise, the variation of Tensile Strength Ratio (TSR) value indicated that the moisture damage resistivity potential of asphaltic mixture can be improved with the addition of CNT. Finally, intermediate temperature performance was evaluated using indirect tensile fatigue and indirect tensile test-based cracking tolerance index. The variation of different parameters from the above approaches indicated that CNT can help in improving the intermediate temperature performance of asphaltic mixture.