Laboratory evaluation of stabilized base course using asphalt emulsion and asphaltenes derived from Alberta oil sands

摘要

Permanent deformation and moisture sensitivity are the two main challenges with the performance of asphalt emulsion-stabilized base courses. This study investigates the application of asphaltenes as a waste material derived from Alberta oil-sands bitumen in improving stabilized base course mechanical properties. Hence, 1% to 3% of asphaltenes by total weight of mix is added to a granular aggregate stabilized with asphalt emulsion. The impact of asphaltenes on the tensile strength, moisture susceptibility, and rutting performance of the modified mixtures is investigated. The asphaltenes-modified base courses have higher tensile strength and rutting resistance, while their moisture susceptibility is slightly lower than the control mix. (C) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.