Invention Description
Asphalt becomes increasingly brittle as it ages, leading to cracking, moisture damage, and reduced pavement service life. Conventional rejuvenators can restore some flexibility, but may offer limited durability and often rely on petroleum-derived materials. Oxidation also causes asphaltene molecules to form aggregates that contribute to binder stiffening and deterioration. There is a need for sustainable rejuvenators that address asphalt aging at the molecular level while improving long-term pavement performance.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a bio-based asphalt rejuvenator to restore aged asphalt binders. The resulting rejuvenator contains compounds that interact with and disrupt the oxidized asphaltene aggregates, helping restore the flexibility and performance of aged asphalt. The rejuvenator improves cracking resistance, moisture repellency, and UV stability compared with conventional additives. Molecular modeling combined with rheological and spectroscopic testing provides insight into the rejuvenation mechanism and supports the development of next-generation sustainable pavement materials.
This novel approach bio-based compositions to effectively rejuvenate aged asphalt binders and enhance pavement flexibility and durability.
Potential Applications
- Rejuvenation additives in asphalt mix designs incorporating RAP for highways, roads, and airport pavements
- Sustainable infrastructure projects focusing on reduced environmental footprint and recycled materials
- Manufacture of high-performance asphalt coatings and sealants requiring balanced mechanical and chemical resilience
- Research and development platform for next-generation molecularly engineered rejuvenators in the road construction industry
- Environmental compliance initiatives promoting the reduction of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and greenhouse gas emissions
Benefits and Advantages
- Eco-friendly, bio-based alternative to petroleum-derived rejuvenators
- Targeted molecular interactions disrupt oxidized asphaltene aggregates, restoring binder flexibility
- Enhanced cracking resistance as demonstrated by reduced Glover-Rowe parameters
- Superior durability with strong UV-aging resistance ensures long-lasting pavement performance
- Improved moisture resistance through increased binder hydrophobicity
- Versatile application via controlled dosage and heating protocols
- Supported by advanced molecular modeling and real-time FTIR diffusion analysis