Evaluation of palm kernel shell and its nano-variant as aggregates in asphalt concrete

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of palm kernel shell (PKS) and its calcined nanomaterial (CN-PKS) as aggregates on the volumetric and Marshall Properties of hot mix asphalt concrete. The PKS and CN-PKS were used to replace the coarse aggregates and the filler material at 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 % each in the same asphalt mix in three replicates. The compositions were mixed together and compacted with 50 blows on both sides to obtain cylindrical samples for the Marshall Stability tests. Volumetric parameters (density, air void, voids filled with bitumen, marshal stability and flow) were carried out on asphalt cores to evaluate the strength of the mixes. Mean values were presented for the tested parameters. All the percent of PKS and CN-PKS mix proportions are within the limits of specification. The optimum stability and percentage air void value was recorded at 20%. Utilizing PKS and CN-PKS at 5% and 15% will most likely cause rutting and bleeding of the flexible pavement due to low percent air void. This study concluded that partial replacement with PKS and CN-PKS as coarse and filler at 20% in the same hot mixed asphalt can improve the properties of asphalt concrete for use in medium traffic roads.