Hot Mix Asphalt Mixtures Research Articles

Coal-derived electrically conductive asphalt pavements for snow/ice melting: From laboratory to field

Timely removal of ice and snow from roads is critical to safe, fast, and uninterrupted transportation networks in cold regions. Constructing electrically conductive asphalt pavements to melt the ice and snow on the roads through resistive heating is an emerging alternative technology to traditional snow/ice removal approaches such as utilizing snowplow machines and deicing chemicals. Carbon-based fibers and fillers including carbon fiber and graphite have been widely reported to make electrically conductive hot mix asphalt mixtures for pavement snow/ice-melting applications. This study aimed to develop and demonstrate a novel type of electrically conductive asphalt pavements for snow/ice-melting, which utilizes electrically conductive cold mix asphalt (CMA) mixtures incorporating coal-derived carbon-based coke aggregate as resistive heating elements. Both laboratory experiments and field tests were conducted to investigate the electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties of such electrically conductive asphalt mixtures and pavements. The laboratory experiment results indicated that the electrically conductive CMA mixtures incorporating coke aggregate had sufficiently high electrical conductivity and satisfactory mechanical performance and the pavement prototype slab utilizing a thin layer of such CMA mixtures could successfully raise the pavement surface temperatures to 8.3–11.7 °C from a low temperature of −5 °C with an input power density of 473 W/m2. The field test results showed that the full-scale coal-derived electrically conductive asphalt pavements were able to increase the pavement surface temperatures when electricity was applied, but the magnitude of temperature increase was highly dependent on the power density. Therefore, it is promising to use coke aggregate to construct coal-derived electrically conductive asphalt pavements for snow/ice melting.

Preprocessing and postprocessing analysis for hot-mix asphalt dynamic modulus experimental data

Dynamic modulus (|E*|) measurements of hot-mix asphalt (HMA) mixtures are critical for understanding material behavior but present significant challenges due to the complex testing procedures and precision required. While substantial efforts have focused on developing predictive models for |E*|, the critical role of experimental data preprocessing has been largely overlooked in the existing literature. This study addresses this gap by proposing a novel, comprehensive framework for both preprocessing and post-processing of dynamic modulus data. Leveraging the well-established ASU |E*| database and the NCHRP 1–40D Witczak prediction model as benchmarks, we introduce advanced empirical techniques, including probability distribution analysis, scatter and box plots, correlation coefficients, and mutual information metrics, to refine data quality and enhance the interpretability of predictive models. Our approach reveals new insights into the interaction of various input factors and |E*| values, leading to improved model robustness and reliability. The post-processing techniques further substantiate the predictive power of the Witczak model, yielding significant enhancements in accuracy and reliability. This research pioneers a standardized data preparation methodology that sets a new precedent in asphalt material engineering, offering a robust foundation for future |E*| modeling and analysis.

Fabrication of High-Performance Asphalt Mixture Using Waterborne Epoxy-Acrylate Resin Modified Emulsified Asphalt (WEREA)

Existing research shows that using waterborne epoxy resin (WER) instead of emulsified asphalt as the binder for cold mix asphalt (CMA) can enhance the rutting resistance, high-temperature performance, fracture performance, and early performance of CMA. In order to eliminate the potential drawbacks such as insufficient strength and low-temperature performance of CMA during application, a novel method was proposed in this study for the preparation of waterborne epoxy-acrylate resin (WER), specifically tailored to modify emulsified asphalt, resulting in waterborne epoxy-acrylate resin emulsified asphalt (WEREA). The modification effect of WER on emulsified asphalt was evaluated through rheological tests and direct tensile tests. A modified design method based on the conventional Marshall design method was proposed to determine the optimal mix proportions, including the key parameters of specimen compaction and curing. The results revealed that the incorporation of WER led to a substantial improvement in the complex shear modulus and a concurrent decrease in the phase angle. When the temperature exceeded 60 °C, the phase angle exhibited a diminishing trend, indicative of a reduced viscosity as temperatures escalated. As the WER content increased, a decrease in the direct tensile strain rate was observed, accompanied by a substantial elevation in direct tensile strength. At various stress levels, the shear strain of WEREA decreases with increased content of WER, indicating that the incorporation of WER can enhance the hardness of emulsified asphalt and improve its deformation resistance. The results from MSCR tests indicate that WER could significantly improve the elasticity and hardness of emulsified asphalt, transitioning it from a viscoelastic material to an elastic material, thereby improving its deformation resistance, resistance to rutting, and high-temperature performance. The results of fatigue life are consistent with those of the amplitude sweep, both reflecting the improvement of resistance to deformation of emulsified asphalt by WER. This indicates that WER has a significant improving effect on the fatigue resistance of emulsified asphalt. Furthermore, the Marshall design tests further confirmed the advantages of WEREA in asphalt mixtures. The optimal preparation for the WEREA mixture was proposed as follows: double-sided compaction for 50 times each, aging at 60 °C for 48 h, optimal moisture content of 5.14%, cement content of 2.5%, and emulsion content of 8.4%. The optimal mix proportions identified through these tests yielded asphalt mixtures with significantly improved stability, reduced flow value, and enhanced rutting resistance compared to the hot-mix asphalt mixture (HMA) of AC-16. These findings suggest that WEREA has the potential to significantly enhance the durability and longevity of asphalt pavements. For future applications, it can be explored for use in producing cold recycled asphalt mixtures. In addition to designing the WEREA mixture according to AC-16 gradation, consideration can also be given to using a gradation with a smaller nominal maximum aggregate size for the application in the surface layer or ultra-thin wearing course.

Fracture properties of asphalt mixtures containing high content of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and eco-friendly PET additive at low temperature

Low-temperature cracking is one of the main types of distress that affects asphalt pavement performance over its service life. At the same time, the accumulation of plastics, especially polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and the potentially harmful effects of these plastics requires special attention in order to find ways to reduce them. Previous studies have paid less attention to the impact of PET on low-temperature cracking in asphalt mixtures and the simultaneous interaction between PET and reclaimed asphalt pavement materials (RAP) on fracture behavior of asphalt mixture. In this study, a value-added substance called PET Additive (PA), which is extracted from chemical processing of PET was blended with asphalt binder at different dosages (1–3 %) to use in the mixture of hot mix asphalt (HMA). Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) was also added to the HMA mixtures at rates of 25 and 50 % by aggregate mass and the resulting asphalt mixtures were tested to characterize the load carrying ability and cracking resistance indexes of the modified HMA mixtures. Circular shaped test specimens with different mixture types and different geometries were manufactured. Results showed that the asphalt mixture containing PA has better performance than the control mixture; among all mixture types, a mixture containing 2 % PA and 25 % RAP had the better fracture resistance at low temperatures. Finally, the results demonstrate that the fracture behavior in Edge Notch Disc Bend (ENDB) and Semi-Circular Bend (SCB) specimens had similar trends.

Experimental Study on Pavement Performance of Warm High Modulus Mixture WHMM-13

In order to solve the dusting and rutting problems of hot mix asphalt mixture during construction and operation, rutting test, bending test, Marshall stability test, freeze-thaw splitting test, uniaxial compression dynamic modulus test, overlay test, and four-point bending fatigue life test are applied on WHMM-13 to study the high-temperature stability, low-temperature cracking resistance, water stability, anti-reflection crack performance and fatigue durability in comparison with HMM-13. The results show that, compared to HMM-13, the dynamic stability and dynamic modulus (45 ℃, 10 Hz) of WHMM- 13 are improved by 10.0% and 47% respectively, and the rutting depth is reduced by 27.3%, indicating that the high temperature stability of WHMM-13 has been greatly improved. As for low temperature cracking resistance, the bending failure strain, stiffness modulus, flexural tensile strength and rupture energy of WHMM-13 are slightly lower than those of HMM-13. As for water stability, the residual stability of WHMM-13 in immersion Marshall test is 87.5%, and the splitting strength is 82.3%, both higher than that of HMM-13. As for anti-reflection crack performance, the total tensile rupture energy of WHMM-13 is 2.32 times that of HMM-13, with cracking resistance index (CRI) increased by 25%, which shows that WHMM-13 has better strength, can effectively prevent the crack from spreading and effectively improve the cracking resistance capacity of asphalt pavement. As for fatigue durability, the fatigue life of WHMM-13 is 5.4% lower than that of HMM-13, with bending stiffness modulus and cumulative dissipation energy reduced by 11.3% and 2.8% respectively, indicating that the fatigue durability of WHMM-13 is slightly reduced.

Advancing the performance characteristics of rubber asphalt mixtures through the integration of Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF) slag: A focus on static and dynamic mechanical enhancements.

To investigate the advantageous effects of incorporating industrial solid waste basic oxygen furnace (BOF) slag on the mechanical characteristics of warm-mixed rubber asphalt (WMRA) and hot-mixed rubber asphalt (HMRA) mixture, varying proportions of BOF slag were substituted for limestone coarse aggregates (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75%). Additionally, a 1.5% dosage of Sasobit warm-mixed modifier was introduced to prepare the rubber asphalt. Subsequent to preparation, both static mechanical tests (including Marshall and indirect tensile tests) and dynamic mechanical tests (including dynamic creep and elastic modulus tests) were conducted to evaluate the influence of BOF slag on the mechanical behavior of WMRA and HMRA mixtures across different substitution levels. Following testing, a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to dissect the impact of BOF slag content and Sasobit warm-mixed modifier on the static and dynamic mechanical properties of the rubber asphalt mixtures. The findings reveal that BOF slag exhibits commendable engineering aggregate properties, enabling substantial substitution of coarse aggregates in both HMRA and WMRA mixtures. As the proportion of BOF slag increases, it enhances the resistance of asphalt mixtures to permanent deformation and cracking under static and dynamic loading conditions, while broadening the range of elastic deformation for both WMRA and HMRA mixtures subjected to repeated loading. Moreover, a synergistic enhancement in the resistance of rubber asphalt mixtures to dynamic load-induced deformation is observed when employing both BOF slag and Sasobit warm-mixed modifier. The findings offer valuable insights for enhancing the performance of WMRA and HMRA mixtures, as well as broadening the utilization of BOF slag and waste rubber.

Performance evaluation of surface treatment waste glass as aggregate in asphalt mixture

Surface modification is a crucial strategy for enhancing the pavement performance of waste glass hot mix asphalt (HMA) mixtures. This study conducts a comparative analysis of various surface modification techniques to pinpoint the key factors that influence the interfacial interaction between waste glass and asphalt. To assess the performance of asphalt mixtures containing surface-treated waste glass, the study employed methods such as Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), boiling water tests, and contact angle measurements, which helped to quantify surface morphology and the effectiveness of different treatments. The evaluation also included assessments of water stability, dynamic stability, small beam bending, and anti-skid properties. Findings revealed that applying a silane coupling agent to the waste glass significantly enhanced adhesion with asphalt, resulting in markedly improved pavement performance. The study identified that incorporating surface-treated waste glass at an optimal proportion of 6 % within the asphalt mixture led to a 42.3 % increase in dynamic stability and a 38.6 % enhancement in anti-skid performance compared to standard mixtures. This research offers a comprehensive evaluation framework for surface modification techniques of waste glass, underscoring its potential to considerably improve road performance.

On comparison of fracture energy measured for six hot mix asphalt composite mixtures using force–load line displacement and force–crack mouth opening displacement curves at intermediate temperatures and different loading rates

AbstractThere are two methods for determining the fracture energy (Gf) of hot mix asphalt (HMA) composites at intermediate temperatures: (i) load–crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD) and (ii) load–load line displacement (LLD) curves. The effects of these two methods on the Gf values of different HMA mixtures are investigated at different loading rates and temperatures. A large number of semicircular bend (SCB) specimens were tested under mode I at different temperatures of 5°C, 15°C, and 25°C and loading rates of 1, 5, 10, and 50 mm/min. The three‐dimensional (3D) fracture energy surface plots obtained from the tests revealed that both temperature and loading rate have noticeable effects on the fracture energy, such that Gf values generally increased by increasing the loading rate and reducing the temperature. Also, the Gf values measured by the LLD method were higher than those by the CMOD method for lower temperatures and lower loading rates (i.e., below 10 mm/min). For the higher loading rates, the Gf values determined by the CMOD method were higher than those by the LLD method. Furthermore, the HMA type had meaningful influences on the variations of Gf at different temperatures and loading rates.

The Influence of Basalt Aggregate on The Mechanical Performance of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) Mixtures

The increasing of traffic load within years reduced the ability to withstand the load path structure, stiffness and strength of the pavement. Along with the development in heavy traffic volume on roads, particularly in tropical locations, the rutting impact has emerged as one of the most significant failures in recent years. A great deal of research has been done to improve the durability and long-term performance of asphalt mixtures in dynamic environments. This paper investigates the effect of basalt aggregate on the improvement of rutting and moisture performance of hot mix asphalt (HMA) mixtures. In this respect, Marshall mix design was employed in the preparation of the specimens. Dynamic creep and moisture susceptibility test have been carried out to evaluate the mechanical properties of the HMA mixture with 30%, 50% and 100% of basalt aggregate replacement. As a result, the performance (creep modulus, permanent deformation and tensile strength) of modified HMA improved remarkably 40- 90% with replacement of 50% basalt aggregate. Based on this studies, the basalt aggregate and its combinations with granite aggregate in asphalt mixes has a significant effect on mechanical properties of HMA mixtures.

Study on the Application of Kramers-Kronig Relation for Polyurethane Mixture.

Polyurethane (PU) mixture, which is a new pavement mixture, exhibits different dynamic properties compared to a hot-mixed asphalt mixture (HMA). This paper analyzed whether the Kramers-Kronig (K-K) relation and thermorheologically simple properties applied to the PU mixture. Based on the results, the PU mixture exhibited thermorheologically simple properties within the test conditions. The time-temperature superposition principle (TTSP) was applicable for the PU mixture to construct a dynamic modulus master curve using the standard logistic sigmoidal (SLS) model, the generalized logistic sigmoidal (GLS) model, and the Havriliak-Negami (HN) model. The Hilbert integral transformed SLS and GLS models for the phase angle can accurately fit the measured phase angle data with newly fitted shift factors and predict the phase angle within the viscoelastic range. The core-core and black space diagrams both displayed single continuous smooth curves, which can be utilized to characterize the viscoelastic property of the PU mixture. The K-K relation is applicable for the PU mixture to obtain the phase angle master curve model, storage modulus, and loss modulus from the complex modulus test results with the test temperatures and loading frequencies. The phase angle of the PU mixture at extremely high or low test temperatures cannot be derived from the dynamic modulus data.

The stability of foamed asphalt concrete based on different soaking conditions

The purpose of this study is to test the water stability of foam asphalt mixture under various immersion conditions. For this purpose, experiments were conducted on warm mixed foamed asphalt and traditional hot mixed asphalt. To evaluate its water stability, Marshall tests, immersion Marshall tests, vacuum saturation Marshall tests, and freeze-thaw splitting tests were conducted. Based on surface energy theory, the water damage mechanism of asphalt mixtures was analyzed. The research results indicate that due to the adverse effects of water erosion and pressure, the water stability of the two mixtures gradually decreases. Although the failure load value of warm mixed foamed asphalt mixture is slightly lower than that of hot mixed asphalt mixture, its water stability parameters still meet the specified requirements. Therefore, warm mix foam asphalt mixture shows satisfactory water stability under different soaking conditions.

Comparative assessment of hot and warm mix asphalt to develop a sustainable pavement: Kg Ayer Merah Mersing case study

Abstract In this study, the construction and pavement properties of warm mix asphalt (WMA) in rural areas were examined in comparison with the conventional mixture of hot mix asphalt (HMA). Both WMA and HMA mixtures were constructed at Kg Ayer Merah, Mersing, Johor in accordance with Public Work Department specifications, regarding redesign of road pavements in rural areas. This study to evaluate the comparison performance of WMA and HMA mixtures at one month and four months after construction based on performance in mechanical (Rate of cooling, density, Marshall, resilient modulus and dynamic creep) and macrotexture performance (sand patch and pendulum test value) and environmental analysis (carbon emission). The findings showed that WMA mixtures showed similar and better performance over HMA mixtures after four months construction in mechanical performance. WMA also obtained a higher rate of cooling than HMA besides reducing carbon emissions during production and road construction indicating the mixture more convenient to cater for double handling in rural areas. This huge impact is in line with the sustainable development goals (SDGs), which aim to develop sustainable infrastructure and reduce global warming issues.

Research on Energy Saving and Emission Reduction Technology of Hot Mix Asphalt Mixture

Research on Energy Saving and Emission Reduction Technology of Hot Mix Asphalt Mixture

Coal gangue in asphalt pavement: A review of applications and performance influence

The comprehensive utilization of coal gangue is low, and this causes serious environment problems and security risks. The physical and chemical properties of coal gangue were analyzed in this paper, and the estimated value of different chemical components of coal gangue was counted. The physical properties of coal gangue aggregate were analyzed, and performance and its influencing factors of base course mixture with coal gangue aggregate were studied. The influence of coal gangue powder and coal gangue aggregate on performance of asphalt mortar and asphalt mixture was analyzed, and possible influencing factors and function mechanism were discussed. The results showed that heavy metal elements of coal gangue applied into asphalt pavement is not seeped out. The crushing value, water absorption and flat elongated particles content of coal gangue aggregate are generally high, but the compressive strength of base course with coal gangue aggregate is verified to meet the strength requirement. The performance, volume stability and durability of base course with coal gangue aggregate are closely related to aggregate gradation, the type and dosage of cementations materials and aggregate. The high temperature performance, temperature susceptibility and viscosity of asphalt mortar are improved by the addition of different coal gangue powder, and improvement effect of activated coal gangue powder on asphalt mortar performance is better. The low temperature performance and adhesion property of asphalt mortar with chemical activated coal gangue powder are improved. The physical reaction between asphalt and different coal gangue powder is only taken place. The temperature stability of asphalt mixture with coal gangue coarse aggregate has achieved the specification requirement. The water stability and low temperature fracture performance of asphalt mixture with fine aggregate replaced by coal gangue are improved. However, the high temperature performance of above mixture is lower than conventional hot mix asphalt mixture. The research results will provide reference for coal gangue applied into asphalt pavement.

Prediction of the Skid Resistance of Recycled Hot Mix Asphalt Mixture

Typically, the skid resistance of pavement surfaces is used to indicate road safety levels. The initial value and long-term behavior of skid resistance can be reportedly determined by modulating asphalt mixture properties during their mix design process. In this study, a skid-resistance prediction equation for recycled asphalt concrete was formulated based on ANOVA test results. An accelerated polishing device was used to replicate the abrasion encountered by road surfaces owing to vehicle–tire interactions for characterizing the skid resistance of recycled asphalt concrete. Notably, key parameters, including initial and terminal values and reduction rate of skid resistance induced by vehicle-related abrasion, were determined. These findings suggest that the initial values and reduction rate of skid resistance can be estimated from the mixed binder properties and initial MTD value. However, the final/terminal skid resistance predicted using aggregate gradations has a limited degree of confidence. To further improve the accuracy of the prediction equation, additional data collection and validation tests are required. In addition, field tests using recycled asphalt concrete are necessary to refine the accuracy and precision of the prediction equations for practical road construction scenarios. This study represents a significant step toward the development of safe and effective road infrastructure.

Self-Healing Characteristics of Polyvinyl Alcohol-Fiber-Reinforced Hot Mix Asphalt for Enhanced Pavement Durability

Pavement maintenance presents significant financial challenges, driving researchers to explore innovative approaches that can prolong pavement service life and reduce costly interventions. The objective of this research is to examine the feasibility of utilizing polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers to self-heal asphalt pavements. A comprehensive mechanical testing strategy was developed to evaluate the self-healing capability of several hot mix asphalt (HMA) mixtures at the micro- and macro-level. Moreover, to assess the healing behavior of macro fractures in PVA-fiber-reinforced HMA, semi-circular bending (SCB) specimens were loaded until peak load and then allowed to heal at varying time intervals and temperatures for several loading cycles. Healing indices developed based on SCB stiffness, strength, and beam fatigue technique were utilized to measure the self-healing ability of control and reinforced mixtures. By comparing different concentrations of PVA fibers with a control HMA, the optimal fiber dosage was determined based on newly developed healing indices. This study also investigated the impact of healing time and different temperatures on healing. The results demonstrated that PVA fibers expedited the healing process, effectively healing macro-, meso-, and micro-cracks. The most effective recovery occurred with 0.3% fiber content at 40°C for a 2 h duration. Incorporating PVA fibers into asphalt pavements presents a promising solution for extending pavement service life and can be helpful in reducing maintenance costs.

Effects of short-term aging on the mechanical and structural performance of hot mix asphalt mixtures: a case study complemented by statistical analysis

This study aimed to assess the effects of short-term aging on the mechanical behaviour of asphalt layers of flexible pavement structures. The effects of aging on their mechanical performance have not yet been detailed, in terms of structural analyses. Therefore, pavement structures with distinct types of asphalt layers (non-aged and aged) were evaluated. Stability, tensile strength, resilient modulus, fatigue behaviour and permanent deformation or static creep were determined. The mePADS software was used to carry out structural analyses of the pavements, based on variations in the bound layers’ mechanical properties, loading level and tire inflation pressure. Horizontal stresses and strains were determined at the bottom of the binder course. Fatigue lives were predicted and discussed based on statistical analyses. The short-term aging enhanced the mechanical parameters, but adversely affected the fatigue life for the examined strain states, which reinforces the importance of carrying out the structural analyses.

An experimental study on the tensile properties of reinforced asphalt pavement

Abstract Utilizing one of the most effective new technologies is the primary goal of this research, which uses a combination of bituminous surfacing materials with geotextile reinforcement sheets, to improve the behavior of asphalt mixes and fatigue reduction. The aim of this research is to analyze the impact of woven geotextile upon fatigue characteristics of hot mix asphalt mixtures. In order to improve the tensile qualities of the asphalt pavement, the experimental program for this study includes the application of geotextile within the wearing layer. Marshall fatigue and stability tests were carried out. Four-point bending test in a strain-controlled mode was adopted in this study. Three micro strain levels (250, 400, 750) at a frequency of 5 Hz were used. The findings demonstrated that unreinforced mixtures have a shorter fatigue life than wearing layers reinforced with geotextile. Additionally, exposure to different temperatures (5, 20, 30°C) showed that the performance of the geotextile interlayer system in cold environments is inferior to that of those in warm and moderate climates. The analyzed geotextile has a positive impact on the performance of the pavement and a large potential to extend the life of the pavement as a whole, according to the obtained results of fatigue life.

Plastic roads: asphalt mix design and performance

Plastic materials are extensively utilized in various aspects of daily life. However, the substantial amount of plastic waste generated can cause significant global environmental issues without efficient waste management practices. To address this problem, the utilization of waste plastics in high-value applications such as highway construction through hot mix asphalt (HMA) has been deemed ideal. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) are the three most prevalent types of plastic waste found in municipal solid waste. The impact of plastic-type and content on the mechanical, volumetric, and durability properties of hot mixed asphalt (HMA) was investigated by utilizing varying plastic contents of PET, LDPE, and HDPE. Tests were conducted in accordance with ASTM standards on twelve HMA mixtures made with an optimal binder content (OBC) of 4.3%, and plastic contents of 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% by weight of OBC. Marshall stability and flow tests were conducted to ascertain the optimal plastic content for each tested mixture. The findings indicated that the stability and flow values improved as the plastic content was raised. 9% LDPE mix gave a maximum Marshal stability value of 12 kN. Additionally, as the plastic content increased, the values for air voids and voids filled with asphalt decreased in all 12 mixes tested. This research aligns with the United Nations 2030 sustainable development goals (SDGs), including SDGs 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15, and presents a viable method for implementing the 3Rs approach towards sustainable plastic waste management.

Silane coupling agent enhances recycle aggregate/asphalt interfacial properties: An experimental and molecular dynamics study

Incorporating recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) into hot mix asphalt mixtures is an effective means of reducing natural sand and gravel extraction and consuming construction solid waste. The surface cement mortar and micro-cracks are the essential differences between RCA and natural aggregates. Therefore, it reduces the adhesion energy between RCA and asphalt interface, resulting in the performance decline of RCA asphalt mixture. To address this issue, this study used a silane coupling agent (SCA) to enhance the adhesion performance at the RCA/asphalt interface. The enhancing mechanism of SCA on the interface was systematically explored in terms of macroscopic performance, micro-interface structure, and nano-interfacial interactions. The macro-experimental results indicated that the performance of RCA asphalt mixes was significantly improved after modification of RCA with SCA solution at 10% concentration. The microscopic test results showed that the hydrolysis products of SCA could chemically adsorb on the surface of RCA to form a dense coupling layer, thereby fixing the interface structural defects. The molecular dynamics results show that SCA can form strong binding energy with the RCA surface mortar through interaction such as Si-O-Si bonds, stable ionic bonds, and hydrogen bonds, and it also has good compatibility with the asphalt layer. In conclusion, SCA can effectively enhance the performance of RCA asphalt mixtures, especially addressing the issue of poor adhesion between RCA surface mortar and asphalt. This study provides theoretical and experimental support for the application of SCA in RCA asphalt mixtures.