Evaluation of different types carnauba wax

This study looks at the feasibility of using type 1, 2, 3 and 4 carnauba waxes, at concentrations of 3 and 5% (m/m), as additives for producing warm asphalt mixtures. The waxes were characterised by infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis and X-ray fluorescence in order to analyse their structural composition, thermal stability and melting point. The four types of wax were used as modifiers for asphalt binders and the resulting effects were evaluated through empirical and rheological tests. The results of the empirical tests indicate that there is a reduction in penetration and an increase in the softening point in the presence of waxes, giving the binder greater rigidity. Rheological tests showed improvement in relation to the possibility of use on roads with high vehicle traffic (Heavy - H) for binder modified with 5% CT4. The results of this study show that carnauba wax meets some of the basic requirements for use as an additive in warm asphalt mixtures.