Journal of Transportation Research

Journal of Transportation Research

A Review on the Performance of Asphalt Mixtures Containing Expanded Clay Aggregate (LECA) at High and Medium Temperatures

Document Type : Review Article

Authors
Ghasem Tahmouresi 1
Mohsen Amouzadeh Omrani 2
hassan divandari 3
Ali Seyedkazemi 4
1 Department of Civil Engineering, Am.C., Islamic Azad University, Amol, Iran
2 Department of Civil Engineering, Savadkooh Branch, Islamic Azad University, Savadkooh, Iran
3 Department of Civil Engineering, CT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
4 Department of Civil Engineering, Am.C., Islamic Azad University, Amol, Iran.
10.22034/tri.2026.571157.3432
Abstract
Asphalt pavements constantly face challenges caused by environmental conditions and traffic loads, such as rutting at high temperatures and fatigue cracking at moderate temperatures, which reduce durability, performance, and increase maintenance costs. These distresses become more severe in hot and arid regions, significantly affecting the long-term performance of pavements. One of the innovative approaches in pavement engineering is the use of artificial lightweight aggregates such as expanded clay (LECA). Due to its low weight, porous structure, specific heat capacity, and high resistance to environmental factors, LECA has become an attractive material for improving asphalt mixture performance. Laboratory and field studies have demonstrated that replacing part of conventional aggregates with LECA can significantly reduce rutting, enhance thermal and moisture resistance, improve surface friction, and decrease traffic noise. Moreover, the insulating property of LECA prevents frost penetration into the lower layers, thereby extending the pavement service life. In addition, the use of LECA helps reduce the consumption of natural resources, transportation energy, and adverse environmental impacts. However, challenges such as high bitumen absorption, increased production costs, and the need to determine the optimal replacement percentage still remain. Recent studies have suggested combining LECA with nanomaterials and polymers as an effective strategy to enhance mechanical behavior and durability. This paper provides a comprehensive review and analysis of previous research, focusing on the benefits, limitations, and future research directions for the application of LECA in modified asphalt mixtures.
Keywords
Expanded Clay Aggregates (LECA)
Fatigue Behavior
Rutting Behavior
Nanoparticles
Subjects
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