Interplay of Blending and Interfacial Zones in Sustainable Recycled Asphalt Materials: A Comprehensive Mechanical Characterization and Modeling Study

The ""Interplay of Blending and Interfacial Zones in Sustainable Recycled Asphalt Materials: A Comprehensive Mechanical Characterization and Modeling Study"" (BIZ-SRAMCS) aims to equip a promising young researcher, Dr. Yi Li, with advanced skills in interdisciplinary research.

This project endeavors to advance the sustainability of Recycled Asphalt Materials (RAMs) by enabling precise durability predictions through comprehensive microstructural and mechanical characterization of the Blending Zone (BZ) and Interfacial Transition Zone (ITZ).

The main research objectives include 1) a profound understanding of RAMs' microstructure, 2) enhanced lab assessment and modeling approaches for the mechanical behavior of BZ and ITZ, and 3) the development of an accurate numerical tool for predicting the response and cracking behaviors of RAMs.

This work, carried out in collaboration with TU Delft, RWTH, and TotalEnergies, is poised to strengthen the EU's scientific and industrial leadership in RAM innovation. Moreover, BIZ-SRAMCS will provide Dr.

Yi Li with a broad spectrum of learning opportunities, including project management, intellectual property rights, and teaching and supervising. Under the mentorship of Dr.

Liu, an experienced scientist at TU Delft, the Fellow will gain diverse knowledge and skills, setting the stage for a successful career as an independent researcher in sustainable infrastructure.