Abstract
The heavy metal (HM) content and limited disposal options of municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MSWIFA) pose significant environmental challenges. However, fly ash offers potential as a sustainable modifier in asphalt pavements. However, moisture susceptibility and long-term leaching necessitate a comprehensive evaluation of the material before its use. This research assessed the moisture-induced sensitivity and long-term leaching behavior of MSWIFA-modified asphalt mixtures, focusing on their practicality in moisture-laden environments. Dense-graded (DG) and gap-graded (GG) asphalt mixtures were prepared using conventional and MSWIFA-modified asphalt binders. The MSWIFA modification significantly enhanced moisture resistance in both aggregate gradations. The DG mixture with modified bitumen (DG-MB) achieved the highest tensile strength ratio (TSR) of 86%. The GG mixture with modified bitumen (GG-MB) did not meet the 80% TSR threshold, but outperformed the conventional GG, highlighting the role of MSWIFA in improving binder stiffness and asphalt–aggregate bonding. Dynamic modulus |E*| test results showed reduced stiffness loss and a higher |E*| stiffness ratio (ESR) in the MSWIFA-modified asphalt mixtures with DG-MB exhibiting 18% to 21% stiffness loss and ESRs up to 84%. The wheel tracking test for high-temperature performance revealed reduced rut depths in MSWIFA-modified asphalt mixtures. The overall leaching remained well below the regulatory limits for MSWIFA-modified asphalt mixtures, demonstrating effective immobilization by the asphalt binder conglomerate. Specifically, DG-MB mixtures achieved better immobilization of HM leaching compared with GG-MB. Overall, incorporating MSWIFA into asphalt mixtures was found to be a viable strategy for safely managing HM leaching and substantially reducing the environmental risk.
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