Study on Properties of Siberian Cocklebur Bionic Harmless Red Mud Modified Asphalt

ABSTRACT This study employed solid waste red mud (RM) as the primary material, which underwent dopamine self‐polymerization and esterification reactions to synthesize biomimetic composite materials based on Siberian cocklebur with high surface area (GA‐CDA‐RM). Experimental data indicate that GA‐CDA‐RM enhances the high‐temperature rheological properties, rutting resistance, and low‐temperature crack resistance of the asphalt binder while reducing the leaching of heavy metal ions in RM. Leaching concentrations of six heavy metals decreased to 10 μg/L, with significant reductions in four additional ions. At 46°C, asphalt binders modified with a 4% mass fraction of GA‐CDA‐RM demonstrated substantial improvements: the composite modulus ( G *) increased by 94.55% compared to styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS) modified asphalt (MA), while both storage modulus ( G ′) and loss modulus ( G ″) increased by 96.99% and 93.88%, respectively. At 64°C and 0.1 kPa, the deformation recovery rate ( R ) of 4% GA‐CDA‐RM@MA improved by 50.88% compared to MA, and at −12°C, the m ‐value increased by 14.8%. This study introduces a novel approach for the environmentally sound treatment and reuse of RM, providing both guidance and a theoretical framework for its recycling endeavors. It holds significant practical, environmental, and reference value for green and sustainable asphalt pavement.