Effect of Zycotherm Nano-Based Warm Mix Additive on the Properties of Asphalt Binders in the UAE

Warm-Mix Asphalt (WMA) additives are used to improve the performance and workability of the asphalt binders. This study used a nano-based saline, Zycotherm, to reduce the viscosity and improve the high-temperature performance of the asphalt binders. To investigate the impact of Zycotherm, penetration, softening point, viscosity and Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) rutting parameter tests were carried out. Based on the results, the Zycotherm-modified asphalt binder with a percentage of 3% lowered the penetration by around 40% and the softening point by 4%, while increased the viscosity by 10% when compared to the control asphalt binder. Rheological testing showed a decrease in the complex shear modulus value and a decrease in the phase angle by around 24% for the Zycotherm modified asphalt binder, which means that the rutting resistance decreases by 13%. Zycotherm modified asphalt binder with a percentage of 1.5% showed nearly similar results as the 3% in terms of lowering the penetration by 20% and softening point by 2% while increased the viscosity even more than the 3% Zycotherm by an overall percentage increase of 11% when compared to the control asphalt binder. For the Rheological testing, the Zycotherm modified asphalt binder with a percentage of 1.5% also showed a 12% decrease in phase angle and complex shear modulus values.