Mechanical evaluation of the influence of textile fiber in stone matrix asphalt mixtures under moisture damage

Stone matrix asphalt (SMA) is a discontinuous hot-mixed asphalt mixture designed to enhance the contact between coarse aggregates, improving resistance to deformation. A rich asphalt mastic, made of fine aggregates, filler, and fibers, fills the voids in the mineral skeleton. Due to the high asphalt content, which can lead to drainage during transport and application, fibers are added to stabilize the mixture. Textile fibers, a byproduct of the textile industry, present a sustainable alternative, offering proper waste disposal while improving the mixture. This study investigated the use of textile fibers as a stabilizing additive in SMA, with a focus on resistance to moisture damage, a key factor affecting pavement durability. Laboratory tests, including indirect tensile strength and resilient modulus assessments, were conducted under moisture exposure. The results showed that textile fibers performed well, indicating their potential as a substitute for commercial cellulose fibers in SMA mixtures, offering both environmental and performance benefits.