Investigating the anti-aging properties of asphalt modified with polyphosphoric acid and tire pyrolysis oil

This research focuses on the aging resistance properties of asphalt, which are crucial for determining the lifespan of asphalt pavement. To combat aging, waste tire pyrolysis oil (TPO) is often added to asphalt, enhancing its resistance to aging but compromising high-temperature performance. This study offered a pioneering solution by integrating TPO with polyphosphoric acid (PPA) to address these issues. In this study, we conducted a series of tests to characterize the properties of PPA/TPO modified asphalt, including temperature sweep and bending beam rheometer tests. The results demonstrated that the presence of PPA in the PPA/TPO modified asphalt could improve its high-temperature performance while maintaining its low-temperature properties. Moreover, PPA in the PPA/TPO modified asphalt enhanced the modified asphalt’s resistance to fatigue and deformation during the aging process, while the presence of TPO effectively reduced the impact of thermo-oxidative aging on the modified asphalt during the aging process. Additionally, physicochemical interactions between the base asphalt and modifiers were observed before and after aging. In summary, this study had offered an innovative method to enhance the anti-aging properties of asphalt, and had provided more options for sustainable, environmentally friendly roads.