Implementation of asphalt aging methodologies using UV radiation

This project seeks to determine the effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on asphalt aging. To this end, a methodology is proposed that incorporates the effect of this radiation and temperature. Current standardized asphalt aging tests are based on pressure and heat, which leaves out important elements such as water and radiation. For this reason, the proposed methodology is sought to be compared with standardized tests from a mechanical and chemical point of view. The constant use of asphalt pavements and their condition in the country justifies the creation of studies to have a better understanding of the subject. To meet the objectives, a bibliographic review of associated topics such as aging, radiation and current regulations was carried out. Global radiation data was obtained from the National Meteorological Institute (IMN), which, through proportions found in the literature, were converted to UV radiation. The UV radiation and temperature chamber developed at LanammeUCR was implemented, which has four UV-A radiation lamps and temperature regulation. Samples of 1 mm and 2 mm thickness were subjected to the aforementioned oven and subsequently tested for comparison of methodologies. Frequency and temperature sweep tests and linear amplitude sweep tests using the dynamic shear rheometer were used to measure the mechanical properties of the samples. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy test was used to observe oxidation indicators in the samples. From the results obtained, it was observed that the samples present an increase in carbonyl, sulfoxide and hydroxyl groups on the upper surface exposed to radiation. All these chemical groups are oxidation indicators and exceed the values obtained from the aged samples using the standard test (Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV)). On the other hand, no major changes were observed in the mechanical properties because the radiation affects the exposed surface, which does not correspond to the majority of the sample. The values obtained in the rheology tests remain within the characteristics of the standard tests (Rolling Thin Film Oven (RTFO) and PAV), although they do show slight variations