Comparative Study of Normal Bituminous Pavement with Self-Healing Asphalt

Authors:

Bhagya Lekshmi S, Alan Jose , Al Sabith N, Emin Fathima S , Giji Sonia

Bhagya Lekshmi S, Department of Civil engineering, Bishop Jerome Institute, Kollam

Alan Jose, Department of Civil engineering, Bishop Jerome Institute, Kollam 

Al Sabith N, Department of Civil engineering, Bishop Jerome Institute, Kollam 

Emin Fathima S, Department of Civil engineering, Bishop Jerome Institute, Kollam 

Gigi Sonia, Assistant Professor Civil engineering, Bishop Jerome Institute, Kollam 

Abstract - Self-healing asphalt is a developing pavement technology aimed at independently repairing microcracks and prolonging service life. It leverages the natural flow characteristics of bitumen, enhanced by the addition of external healing agents like rejuvenator-filled microcapsules, hollow fibres, or induction-responsive additives. When subjected to traffic loads or thermal conditions, these agents are activated or released, facilitating crack closure, recovery of stiffness, and restoration of mechanical performance without the need for standard maintenance. This method can lower lifecycle costs, defer extensive rehabilitation, and promote sustainability by decreasing material use and minimizing traffic disruptions. Laboratory studies of self healing asphalt mixtures have shown improved fatigue resistance, greater healing indices, and enhanced durability compared to traditional asphalt mixes. However, ongoing research challenges include validating long-term performance in the field, optimizing capsule durability, assessing repeated healing capabilities, and ensuring compatibility in mix design.

Key Words:  self-healing asphalt, asphalt pavements, crack repair, rejuvenators, durability.