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High temperature AFM study of CAP 30/45 pen grade bitumen
M B DE Moraes1, R B Pereira, R A Simão
1Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - PEMM - COPPE - UFRJ, Centro de Tecnologia F-209 - Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. mmabu2004@gmail.com
Journal of Microscopy
|June 29, 2010
Summary
This study reveals bitumen microstructure changes with temperature using atomic force microscopy. The characteristic
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Bitumen microstructure remains incompletely understood.
- Detailed microstructural analysis is crucial for asphalt cement applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the temperature-dependent microstructural evolution of asphalt cement (CAP 30/45).
- To elucidate the formation and disappearance of the characteristic 'bee structure' in bitumen.
Main Methods:
- Thermal phase detection atomic force microscopy (AFM) was employed.
- Phase contrast and topography imaging were used to visualize morphology.
- Temperature variations were systematically applied to the asphalt cement sample.
Main Results:
- Bitumen morphology exhibited significant temperature dependence.
- The 'bee structure' underwent substantial changes between 50°C and 56°C.
- Complete disappearance of the 'bee structure' occurred above 57°C upon heating, with gradual nucleation upon cooling from 170°C.
Conclusions:
- A model for the bitumen 'bee structure' was proposed based on observed morphological changes.
- The study provides insights into the dynamic behavior of bitumen microstructure.
- Understanding these thermal transitions is key for optimizing asphalt performance.
