Physical, Rheological, and Morphological Properties of Asphalt Reinforced by Basalt Fiber and Lignin Fiber

Abstract

Studies show that each kind of fiber has its own advantages in improving the properties of asphalt binders. However, there are very limited research studies about mixed fiber-reinforced asphalt (MFRA). In this study, two kinds of fibers, basalt fiber (BF) and lignin fiber (LF), were selected to reinforce SBS (styrene–butadiene–styrene triblock copolymer)-modified asphalt, which is now widely used in pavement engineering. MFRA samples with different fiber mix ratios (FMRs) were prepared for the tests of softening point, ductility, and rheological properties, the micromorphology of which was studied by using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The oil (asphalt) absorption rates of mixed fibers with different FMRs were also tested. The results show that the properties of MFRA were affected by the physical and chemical properties of fibers. Basalt fiber can better strengthen the physical properties of MFRA, while lignin fiber is good for improving the rheological properties, and the oil absorption rate of lignin fiber is higher than that of basalt fiber. Furthermore, the best FMR calculated by the efficacy coefficient method (ECM) was recommended as 1:2 (BF:LF). An interface layer between the fiber and asphalt was observed from the micro images, proving that the fibers bond well with the asphalt. Generally, mixing BF and LF together into SBS-modified asphalt could make full use of the advantages of different fibers and reinforce the comprehensive performance of MFRA better.

Investigation on Fatigue Performance of Asphalt Mixture Reinforced by Basalt Fiber

“…Different fibers have different characteristics, for instance, plant fibers usually have less strength than mineral fibers. The fracture strength of lignin fibers (plant fiber) is smaller than basalt fibers (mineral fiber) [ 16 ], it could also degrade in the mixtures during long-term service. However, the plant fibers such as the lignin fiber could absorb the asphalt very well [ 17 , 18 ] in the mixtures.…”

Impact of Graphene Oxide on Zero Shear Viscosity, Fatigue Life and Low-Temperature Properties of Asphalt Binder

“…In recent years, increasing traffic loading has led to the exploration of high-performance asphalt binders. Several studies showed that modification of base asphalt binders enhances their physical and rheological properties, resulting in minimizing common types of distresses, such as fatigue, low-temperature cracking, and rutting deformation, encountered in asphalt pavements [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ]. Recently, nanomaterials, due to their high functional density, high specific surface area, and strong absorption, have demonstrated a great potential to improve the properties of the binder, leading to high performance and prolonged service life of the pavement [ 5 , 6 ].…”

Master Curve Establishment and Complex Modulus Evaluation of SBS-Modified Asphalt Mixture Reinforced with Basalt Fiber Based on Generalized Sigmoidal Model

“…Luo et al [27] evaluated the enhancement impact of SBS and basalt fiber on anti-rutting and anti-cracking of modified asphalt mixture by the Hamburg wheel track test and the low temperature bending test, respectively. Kou et al [28] selected basalt fiber to reinforce asphalt materials incorporating of SBS polymer, and they found that asphalt materials incorporating of SBS polymer and basalt fiber can make use of both advantages of additives [29][30][31]. Badeli et al [32] explored the influences of F-T actions on fatigue cracking of asphalt mixtures considering seasonal ambient temperature variations.…”