Microwave-Assisted Self-Healing of AC-WC Modified with Iron Powder: Mechanical Performance and Healing Rate
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26877/asset.v8i4.3297Keywords:
Asphalt pavement, iron powder, self-healing, microwave heating, mechanical propertiesAbstract
Conventional asphalt mixtures have limited microwave absorption, reducing the effectiveness of microwave-assisted self-healing. This study evaluates the effect of iron powder (0–10% by mass of fine aggregate) as additional fine aggregate in AC-WC mixtures on mechanical performance and microwave-activated healing behavior. Cylindrical specimens (63 mm × 100 mm; three per mixture) were tested using Marshall Stability and Indirect Tensile Strength (ITS) at 25 °C. Healing efficiency was determined by the ratio of post-heating ITS to initial ITS. Results showed that 10% iron powder increased Marshall stability by 36% compared to the control and achieved the highest healing rate of 76% after the first microwave cycle. However, repeated heating reduced healing performance due to overheating and accelerated binder aging. Iron powder improves early-stage self-healing but requires controlled dosage and heating conditions for long-term durability.
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