Page 13 - CBT 2018

Graphite Nanoplatelet Reinforced Asphalt Materials
Researchers in CEGE have developed graphite nanoplatelet (GNP) reinforced asphalt materials (patent pending) that have superior mechanical properties compared to existing formulations. The costs of GNP-reinforced materials are comparable to polymer modified asphalt materials, which are currently considered to be best performers in pavement construction. The graphite particles significantly reduce the compaction effort required to prepare asphalt mixtures, allowing for better compacted, more durable pavements. Further, the GNP reinforced material has damage sensing capabilities (through measurements of electrical resistance) and self-healing capabilities (through its response to microwaves). This new generation of multi-functional pavement material improves mechanical and compaction properties and adds damage sensing and healing capacities. GNP reinforced asphalt mixtures will enable us to
build more durable and crack-resistant asphalt pavements, and will at the same time facilitate cost effective pavement preservation operations. [9]
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