Evaluation of mechanical properties for stone mastic asphalt containing textile waste

Abstract

Bitumen draining in stone mastic asphalt mixtures has become a potential problem. Due to the storage and laying temperatures as well as difficulties in providing the necessary compaction, the temperatures of the asphalt mix cannot be lowered to prevent or reduce drainage. In stone mastic asphalts, generally cellulose or mineral-based fibers are preferred to reduce draining down of bitumen. Conventional fibers commonly used in stone mastic asphalt increase pavement costs because they are expensive. The aim of this research is investigation of textile waste used to prevent bitumen drainage problem in stone mastic asphalt pavements instead of traditional fibers. Following the determination of the bitumen content, Marshall Stability tests, Schellenberg bitumen drainage test and Indirect Tensile Strength tests were conducted to evaluate the mechanical properties of the stone mastic asphalt mixtures in comparison to mixes containing textile waste. The results indicated that it is possible to produce stone mastic asphalt mixes with textile waste that exhibits similar mechanical properties mixes including cellulose fiber. Moreover, it was found that samples prepared with textile waste exhibits advantage in terms of cost compared to samples prepared with cellulose fiber.