Fabrication and Performance Evaluation of High-Performance SBS-Modified Asphalt through Secondary Modification with Aminated Graphene Oxide

Adding graphene microflakes with excellent mechanical properties to asphalt materials can promote the development of sustainable transportation infrastructure. Recently, graphene oxide–modified asphalt has gained popularity due to its enhanced storage stability, ease of construction, and high-temperature stability. However, the modification mechanism of graphene oxide and polymer modifiers within asphalt remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the mechanism of action of aminated graphene oxide and styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) within asphalt and elucidate their influence on the properties of composite-modified asphalt. This research utilized X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), multiple stress creep recovery (MSCR), bending beam rheometer (BBR), and thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) to explore the performance of composite-modified asphalt and the modification mechanism of modifiers. X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that the modification effect was better, the surface wrinkles of modified graphene oxide increased, and the interlayer spacing expanded, which was favorable to its compatibility with asphalt. Conventional test and Brookfield viscosity revealed that composite-modified asphalt possessed favorable high-temperature resistance and plasticity compared to the original asphalt. Additionally, dynamic shear rheological and storage stability tests indicated that the addition of aminated graphene oxide not only improved the viscoelastic properties of asphalt but also enhanced the compatibility between various substances. Multiple stress creep recovery and bending beam rheometer tests measurements confirm that the composite-modified asphalt exhibits superior high-temperature rutting resistance and low-temperature crack resistance. Fluorescence microscopy analysis demonstrated the uniform distribution of the modifier and SBS within the asphalt, while thermogravimetry analysis revealed that composite-modified asphalt exhibited higher thermal stability compared to SBS-modified asphalt. This study holds significant importance in advancing the development and practical application of road modification materials.