Demonstration of Electrically Conductive Asphalt and Concrete Pavements in Cold Regions

Status: Completed 2024

Funding Agency: Department of War (DOW)

Agency:

Building on the development of electrically conductive asphalt pavements in New Jersey, including laboratory-scale testing and a field proof of concept at Rowan University, this project takes the next step by demonstrating the technology under full-scale, cold-region conditions. The project involves the construction and testing of full-scale electrically conductive flexible and rigid pavement sections at the Farmer’s Loop Permafrost Experiment Site in Fairbanks, Alaska. Conductive additives such as graphite and carbon fibers were used to improve the conductivity of asphalt and concrete mixtures. Stainless-steel electrodes were also installed at the bottom of conductive layers to generate heat and prevent ice formation. This study provides practical recommendations for safe, effective, and broader deicing pavement applications in cold regions.

Investigators: Dr. Ahmed Saidi, PhD., Dr. Shahriar Abubakri, PhD., Dr. Ayman Ali, PhD., Dr. Gilson Lomboy, PhD., Dr. Yusuf Mehta, PhD.

Links to Publications: