Abstract:
The main motivations for the development of research in the area of appropriate additives
for asphalt and bitumen are the enhancement of their properties and improvement of their production
process, including the reduction in environmental burden. Many additives improve the properties
of mineral–asphalt mixtures. Traditionally, additives such as the following are applied: elastomers,
plastomers, latexes, rubber powder, resins, and others. Currently, the modification of asphalt and
bitumen materials by traditional additives can be replaced by nanomaterials that better fit the
requirements of modern industry. New solutions are required, which has led to years of studies
researching micro- and nano-additives. The main aim of the article is to analyze contemporary
research where micro- and nano-additives were applied to asphalt and bitumen and summarize
the advantages and disadvantages of the implementation of these additives for road construction.
The article studied the state of the art in this area based on the literature research. It presents the
possible materials’ solutions, including their properties, used technology, and featured trends for
road construction. The challenges for further projects are discussed, especially environmental issues.
