Electrically conductive asphalt concrete: An alternative for automating the winter maintenance operations of transportation infrastructure

Abstract

Hot mix asphalt (HMA) was modified with carbon fiber (CF) to achieve electrically conductive asphalt concrete with applications to pavement anti-icing and de-icing. The volume resistivity of such electrically conductive asphalt concrete was compared with that of electrically conductive asphalt mastic. Then, the temperature increase, the power consumption, and the snow melting capability of electrically conductive asphalt concrete were evaluated. Lastly, a conceptual cost estimation was performed based on data obtained from lab investigations, publicly available bid records, and the experience gained from the field implementation of a heated pavement system made of electrically conductive portland cement concrete.