Effect of Solid-Solid Phase Change Material’s Direct Interaction on Physical and Rheological Properties of Asphalt

Abstract

Asphalt pavement is a temperature−sensitive structure that is prone to temperature-related diseases. Phase change material (PCM) is an excellent candidate for mitigating these diseases. This paper looked into the effects of indirect composite shape-stabilized PCM incorporation on the characteristics of asphalt. The compatibility, physical properties, and rheological properties of asphalt with various PCM content before and after aging were thoroughly investigated. No phase separation and no chemical reaction occurred between PCM and asphalt. The physical properties improved with the addition of PCM, and the high−temperature performance indexes improved while the low−temperature performance indexes decreased as the aging process progressed. The effects of PCM on the rheological properties of the matrix and SBS−modified asphalt was distinct. PCM was added to improve the high−temperature rheological characteristics of the matrix asphalt when the temperature was higher than 52 °C, while PCM reduced the high−temperature rheological properties of the SBS−modified asphalt. The aging process has an impact on the high−temperature rutting factor of asphalt with a high PCM content. The low−temperature creep behavior and PG grade of asphalt were both improved. The implication of PCM is that it cannot increase the thermoregulation of asphalt pavement without the cost of scarifying the performance of the asphalt or mixture.