CARBON FIBER MODIFIED BITUMEN IN BITUMINIOUS MACADAM

Abstract

Asphalt concrete has been used as the basic material for pavement engineering. Hence improving the quality
of asphalt concrete for better performance and to last longer has remained an interesting area for researchers. Although
various kinds of fibers and polymers have been used widely reinforced in asphalt concrete, fibers due to their exclusive
characteristics have attracted much attention. It is realised that the well-distributed fibers create a network in the internal
structure of the composite, resulting in asphalt concrete that is more tightened. In the present paper, an approach was
developed to mix carbon fibers and bitumen which guarantees the uniform fiber distribution.
In the present study, an attempt has been made to study the effects of use of a mineral fiber called Carbon fiber is used as an
additive in Dense Bituminous Macadam (DBM). An experimental study is carried out on conventional bitumen and fiber
modified binder. Using Marshall Procedure, Optimum Fiber Content (OFC) and Optimum Binder Content (OBC) for DBM
are found respectively. Detailed laboratory investigations will be carried out by preparing asphalt concrete mixtures by
adding carbon fiber with dosages of 0.5%to 2.5% by weight of binder. Volumetric properties of the mixes will be determined
and various strength tests such as marshal stability will be conducted.