NANOTECHNOLOGY AND ACHIEVING SUSTAINABILITY OF BITUMEN

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering Shubra, Benha University Cairo, Egypt.

2 Higher Institute of Engineering in 15 May City

Abstract

Recently, countries around the world have increasingly adopted sustainable development plans, with Egypt being among these nations. As part of these efforts, the production of sustainable bitumen has proven to have a positive impact on enhancing the performance of asphalt mixtures. In this context, nanotechnology was employed to produce bitumen with desirable properties. This study utilized three cost-effective and readily available nanomaterials: nano clay, nano silica, and nano slag. These materials were ground using a ball mill to minimize raw material and grinding costs, and their particle sizes were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Each nanomaterial was tested individually and in combinations of two or more, with proportions ranging from 1% to 5% by weight of asphalt. The findings revealed that the optimal formulation consisted of 2% nano clay and 2% nano silica by weight of asphalt. At this ratio, the penetration value decreased by approximately 16.13%, while the softening point temperature increased by about 14.34%. These changes enhance the asphalt's suitability for hot climates by improving its resistance to high temperatures. Additionally, the kinematic viscosity increased by approximately 20% at the optimal ratio, further contributing to the improved performance of the asphalt mixtures. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that incorporating nanotechnology into asphalt production significantly improves its sustainability and performance, marking a valuable advancement in modern infrastructure development.

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Journal of Al-Azhar University Engineering Sector
Volume 20, Issue 75
April 2025
Pages 527-537

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