Development Super Fibre Warm Mix Asphalt for Desert Environments: Mechanical Performance and Implications for Non-Destructive Evaluation

This study investigates the mechanical performance of Super Fibre Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) using Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) based on Resilient Modulus (MR). Four fibre types: commercial Dellanite Fibre (DF), waste Cellulose Fibre (CF), Wool Fibre (WF), and Jute Fibre (JF) were added at 0.3% by weight to Evotherm-modified bitumen, mixed at 130°C, and compacted at 115°C. MR testing was conducted at 25°C and 40°C to evaluate fatigue and rutting behaviour, respectively. At 25°C, DF and CF exhibited the highest MR values of 3830 MPa and 3774 MPa, indicating superior fatigue resistance. At 40°C, CF had the highest MR (1698 MPa), followed by DF (1647 MPa), showing better rutting resistance. JF consistently showed the lowest performance, with MR values of 1444 MPa (25°C) and 679 MPa (40°C). Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences among fibres (p < 0.001). The findings demonstrate that DF and CF substantially enhance WMA stiffness and temperature resilience.