TRB Webinar: Overview of Nanotechnology and Use of Nanomaterials as Modifiers for Asphalt Binders

TRB conducted a webinar on September 7, 2012, from 2:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m. ET that explored the use of nanomaterials in asphalt binders used for paving applications. To request a recording of this webinar, email Reggie Gillum.

The use of nanomaterials in pavement construction, particularly asphalt binders has the potential to lead to enhanced mechanical properties. Preliminary research demonstrates that asphalt modified with nanomaterials may provide enhanced strength and durability. Panelists will discuss different types of nanomaterials, their use in emulsified asphalt, and how they may contribute to improved asphalt performance.

Panelist Presenters:

Alan James, Akzo Nobel Surface Science LLC
Zhanping You, Michigan Technological University
Ram Mohan, North Carolina A&T State University

Moderated by: Ellie H. Fini, North Carolina A&T State University

Webinar learning objectives:
At the end of this webinar, attendees will be able to understand:

General concepts about nanomaterials, such as clays and their use in emulsified asphalt, and how they contribute to increase strength and durability of paving asphalts
Why nanomaterials may lead to more durable and long-lasting pavements
The various types of materials and how to select potential nano modifiers for asphalt.

Webinar Outline:

Alan James will discuss modified asphalts derived from particle stabilized emulsions, including:

The modification of bituminous binders with nano-sized clays, which have been surface treated to make them compatible with asphalt;
The use of cold emulsion processes that provide an alternative route to similar composite binders without the need to surface treat the mineral;
A description of the emulsification process, including the effects of pH, surfactant, clay, and silica on the particle size, particle shape, reactivity, and viscosity of the emulsion;
The methods to determine the properties of recovered binders; and,
Possible use for the modified binders.

Zhanping You will discuss the application of nanomaterials in asphalt, including:

Five nanomaterials that were selected to blend with the control asphalt binder: Non-polymer modified nanoclay, polymer modified nanoclay, nanosilica, nanomer I.44P, and carbon microfiber.
Tests that were used to evaluate the performance of nano-modified asphalt binders.
Test results that may indicate potential performance improvements; and
Information about additional tests to evaluate the pavement performance of nano-modified asphalt mixtures, including asphalt pavement analyzer rutting, dynamic modulus, flow number and tensile strength ratio tests

Ram Mohan will discuss cementitious materials, materials genome, nanostructures, and modeling

Multi-Scale in Cementitious Materials
Materials Genome and Nanostructures – Role and Implications
Modelling and Analysis of Cement Nanostructures
Experimental Analysis – Current SOA, Limitations and Needs
Multi-Scale Modelling and Analysis Needs and Directions

Registration information:

There is no fee for employees of TRB sponsors who register using their work email address. In addition to employees of TRB sponsor organizations, the following are eligible to receive complimentary webinar registration:

TRB and National Academies employees
Chairs of TRB standing committees, sections, or groups
CRP panel members who were involved with developing the report or project that is the subject of the webinar
Members of the media
Congressional staff members

Other sites must pay $89 per site. View our pricing page for details.

After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Professional Development Hour information:

A certificate for 2 Professional Development Hour (PDH) will be provided to Professional Engineers (PEs) who register and attend the webinar as an individual. For groups, only the person that registers and attends the session will receive a PDH certificate.

Individuals registered as Florida PEs are required to email Reggie Gillum, RGillum@nas.edu, with their license number.

Please check with your licensing board to ensure that TRB webinar PDHs are approved by your board. TRB is classifying this webinar as one related to business practices.

This webinar was developed in June 2012. TRB has met the standards and requirements of the Registered Continuing Education Program (RCEP). Credit earned on completion of this program will be reported to RCEP by TRB. Certificates of Completion will be issued to individuals who register for and attend the entire webinar session. Complaints about registered providers may be sent to RCEP, PO Box 1686, Clemson, SC, 29633. Website: www.RCEP.net.

Registration questions? Contact Reggie Gillum at RGillum@nas.edu.

E-Newsletter Type: TRB News

This Summary Last Modified On: 10/1/2012