Magnetic Resonance for In-situ Determination of Asphalt Aging and MoistureContent

摘要

This study investigated the feasibility of using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)technology for in-situ determination of aging and moisture content of asphalt in pavements. A set of asphalt samples from SHRP Reference Materials Library was used representing a wide variation in properties that affect asphalt aging and are measurable by magnetic resonance. Changes in the hydrogen NMR spectral characteristics (signal amplitude, spin-lattice and spin-spin relaxation times) of asphalt samples as a result of aging, heat treatment, oxidation of moisture were monitored, and correlations were established. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) measurements provided additional information and correlations. The combination of NMR and EPR techniques was shown to be an effective tool for assessing asphalt condition in pavements.