ABSTRACT
The asphalt industry has a long history of incorporating innovative materials in roads and airports to enhance pavement performance while reducing its environmental footprint. Among these innovations, the use of Aramid (Kevlar) fibres to mechanically reinforce asphalt has gained traction since the early 2000s, particularly in North America. Several years of research, field demonstrations and construction projects have demonstrated the ability of these fibres to improve both crack resistance and rutting performance, without any incremental issues due to storage of polymers modified binders, limited hauling distances, size and technology of the asphalt plant, or reliance on high-temperature operations.
Aramid fibre-reinforced asphalt has been introduced into Australian asphalt mixes for the past 2 years, with various local and state government agencies conducting laboratory performance tests on plant-mixed asphalt, alongside field performance assessments.
This study aims to provide an overview of the performance outcomes of fibre-reinforced asphalt in Australia, also highlighting how local conditions, materials, and methodologies influence asphalt durability and structural integrity. The findings will support technology transfer efforts, ensuring that proven international advancements in fibre-reinforced asphalt are effectively adapted and implemented in Australian road infrastructure.
Keywords: Aramid Fibre, Fibre Reinforced Asphalt, Durability, Innovation, Technology Transfer