Analysis of mechanical parameters of asphalt mixtures with addition of metal oxides

The conventional asphalt pavement, due to its dark coloring, absorbs a large amount of energy that is transformed into heat, promoting enormous thermal discomfort for people who live in that environment. This study deals with the addition of red pigments to the asphalt mixture to obtain colored asphalt mixtures. The addition of metallic oxides in asphalt mixtures appears as a way to reduce albedo and consequently minimize the effects of the Urban Heat Island, in addition it is expected that there will be no decrease in mechanical parameters in order to compromise its structure. To carry out this study, the asphalt binder used in the research was subjected to penetration tests, softening point and rotational viscosity and the aggregates characterized with the specific mass, particle size and abrasion tests in Los Angeles. Marshall dosage was used to produce the specimens to be tested to quantify the mechanical tests: Tensile Strength, Resilience Module and Marshall Stability. Mixtures with the addition of 5% red and yellow metal oxide showed lower resistance results than the reference mixture manufactured without the addition of the dye. However, asphalt mixtures with dye meet the minimum requirements required by the standard for all tests performed, and can be used on colored floors in order to reduce the effect of Urban Heat Island.