Project 1.19 Summary:
Asphalt material producers sometimes incorporate Recycled Engine Oil Bottoms (REOB) into
paving asphalt in order to alter its performance grade (PG). State Departments of Transportation
express concern that REOB decreases pavement lifetime, even though it does not violate the
specifications that are intended to ensure good performance. This research project assesses
REOB in asphalt through two complementary approaches: (1) experimental measurements to
detect presence of REOB in asphalt binders used in Rhode Island, and (2) molecular simulations
to quantify mechanisms about how REOB alters asphalt mechanics, meaning viscosity and
complex modulus G*. Prior work at URI has indicated that Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass
Spectroscopy (ICP-MS) can identify REOB presence while simultaneously suggesting a metalbased
fingerprint of asphalt chemistry. Other prior work at URI has developed nanoscale model
systems that replicate asphalt properties within molecular dynamics simulations. In this project,
the intent of approach (1) is to provide ICP-MS experimental data that complement simultaneous
development at RIDOT of a REOB detection approach based on X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The
intent of approach (2) is to identify rheological distinctions to anticipate between systems with
and without REOB. Such perspectives can then be applied toward interpreting effects of REOB
on measured asphalt DSR data and can guide rheology studies in future work.
Principal Investigator:
Dr. Michael L. Greenfield
Institution:
University of Rhode Island
Co-PIs:
None
Project Type:
Base-Funded Research
Start Date:
06/03/2022
Project Cost:
$153,121
Project Status:
In Progress
End Date:
12/31/2023
Agency ID:
69A3551847101
Sponsors:
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology, University Transportation Centers Program, Department of Transportation, University of Rhode Island, RIDOT.
Implementation of Research Outcomes:
This project is in its initial research phase. Implementation of Research outcomes will be reported upon completion of initial research.
Impacts and Benefits of Implementation:
This project is in its initial research phase. Impacts and benefits of the research will be reported after the implementation phase.
Related Links:
Coming Soon
Downloadable Documents