3D printing of asphalt and its effect on mechanical properties

Image of asphalt 3D printer showing the design of the extrusion nozzle

3D printing of asphalt and its effect on mechanical properties

Oct 4 2018

Richard J. Jackson, Adam Wojcik, Mark Miodownik

This paper describes work to design, build and test an asphalt 3D printer, we believe the first of its kind. Key findings include:

  • 3D printed asphalt is more ductile than cast asphalt.
  • The changes in mechanical properties are related to the microstructural changes in asphalt that occur during 3D printing.
  • The mechanical properties of 3D printed asphalt depend on process conditions, this can be advantageous allowing toughness to be tailored to the repair.
  • The technique has the potential to be used on autonomous vehicles or drones to autonomously repair roads and complex infrastructure.

Richard J. Jackson, Adam Wojcik, Mark Miodownik (2018) 3D printing of asphalt and its effect on mechanical properties. Materials & Design. 160, 468-474. Doi:10.1016/j.matdes.2018.09.030 Read publication.

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