State-of-art carbon and graphene family nanomaterials for asphalt modification

Abstract

Carbon and graphene family nanomaterials have attracted more attentions and interests in the asphalt modification research due to their superior mechanical properties. This paper provides the state-of-art review of various graphene synthesis methods (chemical vapour deposition, exfoliation, thermal decomposition, unzipping, and reduction of graphite oxide) and recent studies on typical carbon and graphene family nanomaterials (nanoplatelets and graphene oxide) and carbon nanotube used for asphalt modification towards road engineering application. The effect of each nanomaterial on the asphalt binder is explored with respect to the rutting resistance (high-temperature property), fatigue cracking resistance (intermediate temperature property), and thermal cracking resistance (low-temperature property), respectively. Additionally, various blending methods for dispersing nanomaterials into the asphalt and the cost-effectiveness of each graphene family material are discussed.

Keywords:

• carbon and graphene family nanomaterials
• carbon nanotube
• nanoplatelets
• graphene oxide
• asphalt binder
• property

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Faculty Development Council Grant Program, University of South Alabama to sponsor this study.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.