Application of nanotechnology in pavement engineering: a review

Nanotechnology utilizes the research and technology established at the nuclear and molecular or macromolecular levels to comprehend the nanoscale phenomena. In road construction, the bituminous materials are used in enormous amounts. The macroscopic mechanical conduct of these materials still largely relies on microstructure and physical characteristics at a micro and nano scale level. For many years, scientists and engineers have been exploring nanotechnology in civil engineering, but nanotechnology use in this sector has been limited. Nanotechnology has caught the interest of experts and has progressively penetrated into the field of pavement engineering. The article reviews the published works carried out to study the use of nanomaterials in asphalt pavements and illustrates the technique used to enhance asphalt features by the use of these nanomaterials. In this review, multiple nanomaterials are discussed followed by characterization of these nanomaterials, preparation techniques of modified asphalt binder, and finally the effect of nanomaterials on the efficiency of base asphalt binder as well as the asphalt mixture. The primary focus continues on the use of nanotechnology in pavement engineering to achieve a better atmosphere for society based on recognized pavement engineering requirements and difficulties.