SUSTAINABLE MODELLING AND EVALUATION OF COMPOSITE BINDER FOR FLEXIBLE PAVEMENT

Iaren T. Cornelius, Akor R. Vincent

Abstract


 This study investigates the effects of Rice Husk Ash (RHA)-based geopolymer on the physical, microstructural, and mechanical properties of asphalt binders and asphalt concrete mixtures. A geopolymer was synthesized using RHA as the aluminosilicate precursor and an 8M NaOH alkaline activator. The geopolymer was incorporated into 60/70 penetration-grade bitumen at 4%, 8%, and 12% by weight of binder. The modified binders were evaluated through penetration, softening point, viscosity, FTIR, and SEM analyses, while the asphalt mixtures were assessed using Marshall Stability, Marshall Stiffness, volumetric properties, and Tensile Strength Ratio (TSR). Results showed that adding geopolymer enhanced the stiffness, softening point, and viscosity of the bitumen up to an optimal level of 8%, beyond which performance declined due to particle agglomeration. FTIR results confirmed successful chemical interaction between the geopolymer and bitumen, while SEM images indicated enhanced microstructural homogeneity at moderate additive levels. Mechanical performance tests revealed improved Marshall Stability, stiffness, and moisture resistance of mixtures containing geopolymer-modified binders, with optimum performance observed at 4–8% modification. The overall findings demonstrate that RHA-based geopolymer is a viable, sustainable modifier capable of improving asphalt durability, stability, and moisture damage resistance.

 

KEYWORDS:  Sustainable construction, Geopolymer-Modified Bitumen, Rice Husk Ash (RHA), Asphalt Mixture Performance, Mechanical performance


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