Exploring the suitability of Bambusa Vulgaris Leaf Ash as a biomass filler in asphalt mixtures

Abstract

Utilizing waste as alternative materials in asphalt production preserves natural resources and reduces environmental impacts. This study investigates the potential of Bambusa Vulgaris Leaf Ash (BVLA) as a potential biomass filler in place of conventional mineral filler, Powdered Quarry Dust (PQD), in producing asphalt mixtures. Dried Bambusa Vulgaris leaves were obtained locally and calcined at 600 °C for 2 h, generating BVLA. PQD was replaced with BVLA at 0–100 wt. %. The effects of BVLA filler on the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures were evaluated using Marshall Quotient (MQ) and indirect tensile strengths. Similarly, the durability of asphalt mixtures was assessed through moisture susceptibility (tensile strength ratio). The environmental impacts (embodied energy and global warming potential), sustainability score, and eco-strength efficiency of incorporating BVLA as a PQD alternative were evaluated using the cradle-to-gate boundary. The results revealed improved mechanical and durability properties with increased BVLA dosage in the asphalt mixtures. However, the optimum replacement level was found at 30 wt. % BVLA, resulting in 37.43, 22.22 and 22.39, and 4% higher MQ, wet and dry indirect tensile strengths, and tensile strength ratio compared to the control mixture (PQD-based asphalt mixture). With a 30 wt. % optimum BLVA dosage in the asphalt mixtures, the embodied energy and global warming potential decreased by 5 and 50%, while the sustainability score and eco-strength efficiency increased by 50 and 34%. These findings underscore the potential of BVLA to enhance pavement construction properties and promote sustainability.