MSAGroup / March 26, 2026
Real impact on pavement durability
Real impact on pavement durability
Nanotechnology in asphalt: new publication in Fuel
Members of #MSAGroup – Szymon Malinowski and Agnieszka Woszuk, in collaboration with researchers from #Wydział_Mechaniczny_PL and VILNIUS TECH – Vilnius Gediminas Technical University – have published a study on the ageing behavior of asphalt modified with polythiophene nanofibers (PT_NFs).
The paper provides a comprehensive evaluation of how this novel polymer additive influences asphalt binder performance – from chemical composition, through surface structure, to nanomechanical and rheological properties.
Both modification and ageing processes were investigated, including short-term ageing (TFOT) and long-term ageing (PAV), enabling a full durability assessment under service conditions.
Key findings include:
✔ changes in chemical structure (FTIR) and reduced oxidation of asphalt components
✔ improved rheological performance (MSCR), particularly enhanced resistance to permanent deformation
✔ interfacial interactions and surface free energy (SFE), critical for asphalt–aggregate adhesion
✔ nanomechanical properties (AFM), indicating reinforcement of binder microstructure
✔ potential for extending pavement lifespan by mitigating ageing processes
The results suggest that polythiophene nanofibers can serve as an effective and more sustainable alternative to conventional polymer modifiers.
The paper has been published in Fuel (IF = 7.4).
This work also carries a special meaning. It is one of the last scientific collaborations with Prof. #Adam_Zofka, who passed away on February 22, 2026. His contribution to pavement engineering – and to this publication – remains deeply valued by the entire team.
Full article: https://lnkd.in/dTfitHh8
#asphalt #pavementengineering #civilengineering #materialsengineering #nanotechnology
#roadengineering #infrastructure #durability #sustainability #bitumen
#rheology #aging #nanomaterials #research #science