Use of vitrified municipal solid waste bottom ash as a filler substitute in asphalt mixtures

The experimental investigation reported in this paper focused on the use of filler obtained from vitrified municipal solid waste bottom ash (VBA) in asphalt concrete mixtures. Vitrification of municipal solid waste bottom ash results in a homogeneous, amorphous, and inert material which is characterized by negligible pollution risk during all phases of production and laying, overcoming most of the environmental concerns related to the use of untreated incinerator products. Performance characteristics of asphalt concrete mixtures prepared with a filler originated from VBA were compared with those of reference mixtures prepared with a standard mineral filler. The testing program included evaluation of compaction properties, volumetric characteristics, stiffness, and rutting potential. Experimental results indicated that VBA can be conveniently used as a filler substitute in asphalt mixtures resulting in a fully satisfactory pavement performance.