Evaluation of Asphalt Stripping Properties Using Surface Free Energy

Stripping is one of the major distresses within asphalt concrete pavements caused due to penetration of water within the interface of asphalt-aggregate matrix. The percentage of the surface area of aggregate that has been exposed to water was used as a significant index to quantify the level of adhesive fracture. This index is calculated with the surface free energies of aggregate and asphalt which are measured by two methods, the Sessile Drop and the Wilhelmy plate, respectively.Calculation of surface free energy of adhesion using these approach can help select more compatible asphalt-aggregate combinations for asphalt mixtures. More compatible combinations can improve the adhesive bond and reduce debonding potential in the presence of moisture, stripping.