Use of Microencapsulated Phase Change Material (MPCM) in Asphalt Binder for Delaying Low Temperature Cracking

Status: Completed

Funding Agency: Department of Defence

Abstract: 

This study focuses on developing asphalt binders modified with Microencapsulated Phase Change Materials to mitigate low-temperature cracking, intermediate cracking, and rutting. The laboratory phase includes identifying suitable MPCMs, optimizing blending parameters such as mixing time, temperature, and dosage, and evaluating binder performance through thermal stability, rheological characterization, and temperature-dependent behavior. Optimized MPCM modified binders are then incorporated into asphalt mixtures for comprehensive performance assessment, including rutting resistance, intermediate and low-temperature cracking, and modulus evaluation. The outcomes deliver blending guidelines, suitable test methods, and recommended MPCM types and dosages, providing practical design inputs and construction guidance for field implementation.

Principal Investigator: Dr. Yusuf Mehta, PhD., Dr. Ayman Ali, PhD., Dr. Anil Kumar Baditha, PhD.

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