Using papyrus fiber ash as a sustainable filler modifier in preparing low moisture sensitivity HMA mixtures

Abstract

In this study, a sustainable filler made from papyrus fiber ash (PFA) is used as a partial cement replacement in hot mix asphalt mixtures (HMA). The replacement levels used are 0, 5, 10, and 15% by weight of ordinary Portland cement. The hot mix asphalt samples were subjected to Marshal volumetric properties (stability, flow, and air voids) and service tests (tensile strength ratio test and immersion compression test) to predict the influence of the used filler modifier on the moisture sensitivity of blended HMA. Best results have been achieved by using 10% of PFA, whereas all the prepared samples with the mentioned percentage of the filler modifier showed a lower sensitivity to moisture in comparison with the control samples, which contained 0% of PFA. The used technique proved to be very efficient in keeping the pavement safe from deformation caused by moisture. At the same time, using sustainable filler materials proved to be an environmentally eco-friendly method.