Strengthening Substandard Road Materials with Nanoemulsion-Based Stabilisation: An Experimental Study

Abstract

This study considered using nanotechnology-based products to stabilise and enhance the properties of a substandard quality road construction material. Two stabilisers, herein referenced as Nano-A and Nano-B, were utilised to stabilise a G6 gravel material with a California bearing ratio (CBR) of 25% and a Plasticity Index (PI) of 4%. X-ray diffraction (XRD) tests showed that the material contained 58% Quartz with 36.5% clay minerals in the fraction passing the 0.075 mm sieve. The impact of the stabilisers on the material was evaluated through CBR, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), and indirect tensile strength (ITS) tests. The results revealed that both stabilisers significantly improved the bearing strength of the material by as much as 53 and 92% for Nano-A and Nano-B, respectively. Significant improvements were also noted in UCS and ITS results. The study also revealed that both rapid and 28-day curing conditions result in similar strength effects in the samples. Nano-B also showed great potential for improving the material’s hydrophobic properties as measured by the resistance to water damage. The research findings indicate an enhanced load-bearing capacity of the stabilised material, ensuring long-lasting pavement infrastructure. These enhancements demonstrate the effectiveness of Nano-A and Nano-B in improving the properties of substandard road construction materials. Tests on more substandard materials are recommended.