Effects of synergistic combined Bakelite and Nano clay modification on asphalt mixture performance properties

This study examines the effects of Bakelite and Nano clay as modifiers in AC60/70 asphalt mixtures to enhance performance properties. Mixtures with varying Bakelite (3%, 6%, 9%) and Nano clay (2%, 4%, 6%, 8%) concentrations were tested for indirect tensile strength, tensile strength ratio, moisture susceptibility, resilient modulus (stiffness) and rutting resistance. The results identified 6% Bakelite as optimal for single modification and 6% Bakelite with 4% Nano clay as the best combination, improving permanent deformation resistance by 39.2%, resilient modulus by 1.6 times and reducing moisture susceptibility by 22.56%. These enhancements result from Bakelite's contribution to binder stiffness and viscosity, complemented by Nano clay's reinforcing effect on the binder's network structure. The synergistic interaction between these modifiers offers a balanced solution for more resilient, durable pavements, particularly in hot climates. This study highlights the potential of Bakelite-Nano clay-modified mixtures for advanced asphalt applications.