Publication: Characterization and computational modeling of asphalt mixtures incorporating lime kiln dust as alternative mineral filler.
Date
2025-08
Authors
Oumar Orozi, Sougui
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Abstract
In response to the depletion of non-renewable resources and the growing emphasis on sustainable construction practices, this study investigates the performance of asphalt mixtures incorporating lime kiln dust (LKD) as an alternative mineral filler. The LKD offers an eco-friendly solution by repurposing an industrial by-product, reducing landfill waste, and mitigating climate impacts while aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for resource efficiency. The study compares LKD with conventional fillers such as ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and hydrated lime (HL) through experimental analyses and finite element method (FEM) simulations to evaluate the feasibility, efficiency, and sustainability of LKD in asphalt pavement applications. Key findings reveal that LKD exhibits favorable physico chemical, mineralogical, morphological and spectroscopical properties, enhancing mechanical stability, aging resistance, and moisture durability in asphalt mixtures. Laboratory tests, including mechanical and moisture susceptibility assessments demonstrate that LKD-modified mixtures achieve superior or comparable mix performance compared to OPC/HL in rutting resistance and durability. The environmental assessments via toxicity characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) tests confirm LKD's compliance with safety standards, with lower heavy metal leaching and emissions than conventional mineral fillers. The FEM simulations using PLAXIS 3D further validate LKD's effectiveness in reducing pavement deformation and improving stress distribution under traffic loads. Therefore, the findings highlight that LKD is a sustainable, high-performance alternative to traditional mineral fillers, aligning with the current pavement durability and environmental goals. Its use not only enhances asphalt mixture performance but also promotes the repurpose of industrial by products, contributing to eco-friendly road infrastructure development.