Overview Emerging technology
Nanotechnology works with materials at a very small scale to improve structure and performance. Bitumen makes up about 90% of an asphalt mixture’s binder role, but nano compounds in bitumen are still mostly experimental and academic.
Because bitumen is such a large share of asphalt, using nano compounds at industrial scale raises cost sharply. In special projects such as bridges, airports and high-performance pavements, nano materials like nanofibers and nanolime are sometimes added to the asphalt mixture itself.
In Iran, industrial use of nano-modified bitumen has not been reported; nano additives have been used only in specific projects, added to the asphalt mixture.
Additives tested in the laboratory
- Clay nanocomposites
- Calcium nanocarbonate
- Carbon nanotubes
- Nanosilica
- At low percentages these additives raise the softening point for better heat resistance, increase viscosity for better adhesion, and improve high-temperature performance.
