International Journal of Transportation Engineering

International Journal of Transportation Engineering

Effects of Aging and Rest Periods on the Self-Healing Properties of Asphalt Mixtures

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
1 Assistant Professor, Faculty of Technology and Engineering, University of Zabol
2 Associate Professor, Department of Engineering, Payame Noor University
3 Associate Professor, Department of Engineering, University of Zanjan
Abstract
Aging of asphalt mixtures is one of the main causes of reduced durability and performance in flexible pavements. The self-healing ability of asphalt materials plays an important role in extending their service life. This study examines the impact of short-term and long-term aging, using two standard methods (R30 and NCHRP), as well as the influence of different rest periods on the self-healing capacity of asphalt mixtures. Specimens were prepared with PG 64-16 binder and siliceous aggregates, and self-healing was assessed using three indicators: stiffness ratio difference, fatigue life ratio, and failure rate. The results show that longer rest periods significantly improve self-healing indices. Samples aged with the R30 method generally performed better than those aged with the NCHRP method, while unaged samples consistently exhibited the highest self-healing potential. The findings suggest that employing multiple indices provides a more complete picture of asphalt mixture behavior, and systematic comparison of aging methods can serve as a valuable guide for optimizing materials and designing long life pavements.
Keywords


Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 13 December 2025