Preparation and properties of an anti-icing and de-icing emulsified asphalt coating containing RTV and CNTs

Abstract

In regions experiencing cold weather, road icing poses significant challenges to transportation safety. Traditional anti-icing or de-icing methods, such as salt spraying, have raised environmental concerns, prompting the exploration of more sustainable alternatives. This study introduces a novel approach by developing a hydrophobic coating for road surfaces. This method involves using room-temperature vulcanized silicone rubber (RTV) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for the hydrophobic modification of emulsified asphalt (EA), resulting in the preparation of modified emulsified asphalt (RCEA). This method does not cause environmental pollution and makes the road surface highly hydrophobic and effective at preventing ice formation. When the dosages of RTV and CNTs are 20 wt% and 4 wt%, respectively, the contact angle of RCEA reaches 118.6°, showing a significant increase of 73.4 % compared to EA. Comparative tests have revealed that RCEA extends the freezing time of water droplets by 66.7 % at −10 °C compared to traditional emulsified asphalt (EA). Furthermore, the adhesion force of ice on the RCEA surface is 58.2 % lower than on EA, indicating significantly improved de-icing efficiency. The results of ultraviolet aging and freeze-thaw cycle tests show that RCEA maintains its hydrophobicity, evidenced by only a slight reduction in the contact angle. Additionally, water seepage coefficient tests and anti-skid performance assessments confirm that RCEA meets the requisite standards for road performance. In summary, RCEA emerges as a promising anti-icing and de-icing material for asphalt roads, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional de-icing methods.