TITLE:
Sustainable Innovation in Road Construction: Enhancing Moisture Resistance of Bituminous Mixtures with Bamboo and Bagasse Ashes
AUTHORS:
Guy Oyéniran Adeoti, Peace Sèna Hounkpe, Issa Aroum Adjidjola
KEYWORDS:
Bituminous Concrete, Moisture Resistance, Bamboo Ash, Sugarcane Bagasse Ash, Sustainable Materials, Pozzolanic Properties, Environmental Impact
JOURNAL NAME:
Materials Sciences and Applications,
Vol.16 No.2,
February
8,
2025
ABSTRACT: This study investigates the potential of bamboo ash (CB) and sugarcane bagasse ash (CBCS) as sustainable filler and reinforcement materials to optimize the moisture resistance of bituminous concrete. The research addresses critical environmental and economic challenges by proposing the valorization of these agricultural by-products, which are rich in silica (SiO2) and possess pozzolanic properties, to improve the mechanical performance and durability of bituminous mixtures. Material characterization revealed the suitability of CB and CBCS due to their mineralogical composition and adherence to engineering standards for filler materials. Four formulations were tested, including a control sample and mixtures incorporating 0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.4% CB and CBCS. The mixture with 0.3% of each ash demonstrated optimal results, significantly enhancing Marshall stability, compactness, and fatigue resistance compared to the control sample. Durability assessments, including water sensitivity and freeze-thaw cycle tests, indicated superior performance of the modified mixtures, with reduced moisture-induced damage and enhanced resistance to extreme climatic conditions. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses confirmed improved microstructural integrity, showing strong adhesion between ash particles and the bitumen matrix, reduced porosity, and limited microcracking. In addition to mechanical and durability improvements, the integration of CB and CBCS offers substantial environmental and economic benefits. The study demonstrates a reduction in CO2 emissions and production costs, positioning these ashes as viable solutions for sustainable road construction. This research underscores the potential of incorporating agricultural by-products in bituminous concrete, achieving dual benefits: enhancing infrastructure durability and promoting sustainable resource utilization.