Performance of foamed bituminous mixtures for the construction of pavements: A review

The use of foamed bitumen technology (FBT) in constructing pavements has demonstrated considerable environmental and economic benefits. This technology reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and saves energy and natural resources by enabling the manufacture to be carried out at lower temperatures. Research has concentrated mainly on investigating the performance of foamed bituminous mixtures (FBM) to determine their efficacy for pavement construction. In addition to laboratory studies, many researchers have investigated the field performance of these mixtures across the world. These studies indicate that the fatigue life of FBMs is comparable to or slightly superior to that of HMA. In addition, their sensitivity to temperature is lower compared to HMA. On the other hand, FBM tends to have lower ITS, resilient modulus, moisture resistance, and rutting resistance. This paper reviews the development of FBT based on the findings from existing research studies. The impact of this technology on the environment and economy, as well as its future scope for increased applicability as a sustainable construction practice, is discussed. While there are numerous advantages this technology can offer over traditional methods such as hot mix asphalt (HMA), there are several aspects that still need to be investigated to utilize it fully. •Discussed the production, advantages, and applications of foamed bitumen.•Summarized the mix design process for foamed bituminous mixtures.•Reviewed the laboratory and field performance of foamed bituminous mixtures.•Presented the economic and environmental impact of foamed bitumen technology.•Use of foamed bitumen in pavements is found to be a sustainable construction practice.