Nanomaterials for Modified Asphalt and Their Effects on Viscosity Characteristics: A Comprehensive Review

The application of nanomaterials as modifiers in the field of asphalt is increasingly widespread, and this paper aims to systematically review research on the impact of nanomaterials on asphalt viscosity. The results find that nanomaterials tend to increase asphalt’s viscosity, enhancing its resistance to high-temperature rutting and low-temperature cracking. Zero-dimension nanomaterials firmly adhere to the asphalt surface, augmenting non-bonding interactions through van der Waals forces and engaging in chemical reactions to form a spatial network structure. One-dimensional nanomaterials interact with non-polar asphalt molecules, forming bonds between tube walls, thereby enhancing adhesion, stability, and resistance to cyclic loading. Meanwhile, these bundled materials act as reinforcement to transmit stress, preventing or delaying crack propagation. Two-dimensional nanomaterials, such as graphene and graphene oxide, participate in chemical interactions, forming hydrogen bonds and aromatic deposits with asphalt molecules, affecting asphalt’s surface roughness and aggregate movement, which exhibit strong adsorption capacity and increase the viscosity of asphalt. Polymers reduce thermal movement and compact asphalt structures, absorbing light components and promoting the formation of a cross-linked network, thus enhancing high-temperature deformation resistance. However, challenges such as poor compatibility and dispersion, high production costs, and environmental and health concerns currently hinder the widespread application of nanomaterial-modified asphalt. Consequently, addressing these issues through comprehensive economic and ecological evaluations is crucial before large-scale practical implementation.