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Updated: Sep 12, 2025
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Advanced Self-Healing Asphalt Reinforced by Graphene Structures: An Atomistic Insight
Published on: May 31, 2022
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Rejuvenated Graphene Nanoplatelets Unlocking Extrinsic Self-Healing in Asphalt Binders
Nacer Akkouri1,2, Nawal Al-Shraideh2,3, Yahya Agzenai Ben Salem1
1High Throughput Multidisciplinary Research Laboratory (HTMR), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Ben Guerir 43150, Morocco.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|August 5, 2025
Summary
This study developed self-healing asphalt binders using graphene nanoplatelets and a biobased rejuvenator, activated by microwaves. This innovative approach significantly enhances pavement durability and extends service life, reducing maintenance needs.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Civil Engineering
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Asphalt binder aging and fatigue compromise pavement longevity.
- Developing durable and self-healing asphalt materials is crucial for infrastructure sustainability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a multifunctional strategy for enhancing asphalt binder durability.
- To develop microwave-activated self-healing asphalt binders using intercalated graphene nanoplatelets and a biobased rejuvenator.
Main Methods:
- Intercalation of a vegetable-oil-based rejuvenator within graphene nanoplatelets (GnP-Rej).
- Structural and thermal characterization (FTIR, Raman, XRD, XPS, TGA).
- Rheological testing (rutting resistance, fatigue life via LAS, MSCR), and healing analysis.
Main Results:
- Successful intercalation confirmed via noncovalent interactions.
- Optimized GnP content (0.1-0.18 wt%) improved rutting resistance and flexibility.
- Microwave-activated GnP-Rej (0.24 wt%) significantly extended fatigue life and demonstrated self-healing capabilities (HI > 1.4).
Conclusions:
- Graphene nanoplatelets combined with a biobased rejuvenator and microwave activation offer a scalable route to smart, self-healing asphalt binders.
- This technology promises extended pavement lifespan and reduced maintenance costs.
