Statistical Analyses of Aggregate Mineral–Binder Adhesion: Measuring with Particle Probe Scanning Force Microscopes

Aggregate–binder adhesion is critical to the performance of asphalt mixtures. Recently, particle probe scanning force microscopes were created to measure the adhesion between aggregate minerals and various plain and modified binders at the microscale. In this study, statistical analyses were performed to evaluate comprehensively the effects of different factors on the aggregate–binder adhesion, including aggregate constituents, binder types, and modifier types. Average unit surface energy values were used to quantify the adhesion between aggregate minerals and various binders. Results showed that the alumina–binder pairs exhibited the greatest adhesion. For the control binder, the adhesion values increased as the weight percentages of styrene–butadiene–styrene, styrene–butadiene–rubber, and polyphosphoric acid increased. Adhesion differences between aggregate minerals and various plain and modified binders were observed by using particle probe scanning force microscopes.