Chemical Compatibility and Physical Coupling between Allophane and Asphalt

Motivated by the promising results of previous research, this study evaluated the feasibility of using Allophane, an Ecuadorian nano-clay, as an additive to improve the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures. The road construction industry has constantly sought to enhance the performance of asphalt pavements, which are affected by issues such as cracking, deformation, and oxidation. These challenges have driven this research to include nanomaterials to extend the lifespan of road infrastructure and reduce maintenance costs. For this purpose, physical and chemical characterization tests were conducted on conventional asphalt (AC-20) and asphalt modified with different percentages of Allophane. These tests included indirect tensile strength, stiffness modulus, and wear loss tests, as well as rheological analyses to determine the viscoelastic behavior of the material. The conclusions indicate that Allophane significantly improves the strength, stiffness, and durability of asphalt, offering a sustainable and high-performance alternative for the construction and maintenance of asphalt pavements. However, it is noted that the performance of Allophane modified asphalt may degrade after prolonged aging. The research highlights the importance of this nanotechnological additive in improving road infrastructure, extending the lifespan of asphalt pavements, and reducing maintenance costs.