3D printing of asphalt and its effect on mechanical properties
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.