Microstructure morphologies of asphalt binders using atomic force microscopy

Abstract

We investigated microstructure morphologies of three asphalts (SK, Karamay, and Esso) used in China using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The topography and phase contrast images were obtained. Topographic profile and three dimensional images were described. Roughnesses of microstructure were calculated. And the chemical compositions of asphalt were tested to explain the microstructural mechanism of the asphalt. The results show that the topography and phase image in atomic force microscopy are appropriate to evaluate the microstructure of the asphalt binder. There are significant differences in microstructural morphologies including bee-like structure, topographic profile, 3D image, and roughness for three asphalts in this study. There are three different phases in microstructure of asphalt binder. The oil source and chemical composition of asphalt, especially asphaltenes content have a great influence on the microstructure.

Keywords

pavement materials / asphalt binder / microstructure morphologies / atomic force microscopy / chemical compositions

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