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    <title>Transport Research International Documentation (TRID)</title>
    <link>https://trid.trb.org/</link>
    <atom:link href="https://trid.trb.org/Record/RSS?s=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" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
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    <language>en-us</language>
    <copyright>Copyright © 2026. National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.</copyright>
    <docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs>
    <managingEditor>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</managingEditor>
    <webMaster>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</webMaster>
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      <title>Transport Research International Documentation (TRID)</title>
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      <link>https://trid.trb.org/</link>
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    <item>
      <title>Governing mechanisms and practical implications of jamming transition in asphalt mixture packing</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2651672</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The stability of asphalt mixture packing is largely determined by the asphalt mixture design and compaction methods. This study investigates the jamming transition mechanisms during the asphalt mixtures packing behavior exposed to various compaction conditions by integrating laboratory experiments with discrete element method simulations. Confined, unconfined, and vibratory packing tests were performed to evaluate the effects of aggregate morphology, interparticle friction, binder adhesion, and vibration on the formation of jammed states. The results reveal that polygonal aggregates exhibit higher angles of repose than circular aggregates due to enhanced mechanical interlocking, while high temperatures weaken binder adhesion and reduce jammed-state stability. Increasing friction coefficients accelerates the jamming transition but limits particle rearrangement, resulting in looser packing structures. Compaction partially mitigates friction-induced variability through skeleton reorganization, yet optimal densification is achieved at the friction coefficient of 0.2, which balance particle mobility and load transfer resistance. The optimized vibratory loading significantly enhances initial packing, lowers final voids in mineral aggregate, and reduces the compaction impulse, achieving an equivalent temperature reduction of approximately 7.7 °C. These findings provide fundamental insights into the jamming transition of asphalt mixtures and offer practical guidance for improving construction protocols, reducing energy consumption, and enhancing pavement durability.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:10:42 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2651672</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Understanding the Influence of Thermal Treatment on Phase Changes and Reactivity of Smectite for Use in Limestone Calcined Clay Cement</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2651450</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The partial replacement of cement by calcined clays is seen as one of the most important avenues for producing low-carbon cements. However, the limited availability of kaolinite may become a major barrier for the industrial adoption of this technology. This paper demonstrates the potential use of iron-rich smectite clays, which are more easily available in many regions, as supplementary cementitious materials by comparing the physical and chemical changes that occur in smectite with those in kaolinite upon thermal treatment. The clays were calcined between 400°C and 1,000°C and were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) techniques. The physical and chemical properties of calcined clays like specific surface area, density, morphology, and cation exchange capacity were also examined. The dehydroxylation process of the clays was found to be distinct: smectite undergoes a two-step dehydroxylation, transforming into a highly amorphous phase only after the removal of hydroxyl groups in the second step unlike kaolinites. The effect of clay mineral type and calcination temperature on the pozzolanic reactivity and mortar compressive strength was also assessed. It was observed that properly calcined smectite clay exhibits pozzolanic reactivity similar to or even higher than that of kaolinite. The type of clay mineral influences the rate of strength development because smectite showed slower but longer hydration and ultimately matched the compressive strength of kaolinite by 28 days. These findings present the potential of producing sustainable calcined clay cements more widely around the world.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 17:03:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2651450</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Controlled preparation and low-temperature performance of solid-solid phase change materials for asphalt pavements</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2681544</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Solid-solid phase change materials (SSPCMs) exhibit great potential for improving the low-temperature performance (LTP) of asphalt pavements. In this study, a series of SSPCMs suitable for low-temperature environments were synthesized and optimized. Then, the SSPCMs were incorporated into asphalt, and their effects on the road performance, temperature regulation performance (TRP), and LTP of asphalt were investigated. The results indicate that the thermal storage properties of SSPCMs can be precisely controlled by adjusting the soft segment mass fraction. The freezing temperature index based on dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) is recommended to evaluate the LTP of SSPCMs modified asphalt (SPMA), and SSPCMs with a soft segment mass fraction of 75% can reduce the freezing temperature by 10.13°C. SSPCMs improve the LTP of asphalt through their superior mechanical properties and thermal storage properties.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:40:50 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2681544</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Sustained-Thermal-Regulation Composite PCMs Using Porous Waste-Derived Support and Epoxy Encapsulation for Enhanced Thermal Resilience of Asphalt Pavements</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2676393</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Polyethylene glycol (PEG) has been widely recognized as a promising phase-change heat storage material for enhancing the high-temperature adaptability of asphalt pavements. However, PEG tends to leak during melting, which compromises pavement performance and long-term functionality. To address this issue, a dual strategy combining vacuum impregnation and epoxy encapsulation was developed to prepare composite phase-change materials (cPCMs) with high latent heat and anti-leakage properties. PEG was first adsorbed into porous carriers via vacuum impregnation and subsequently encapsulated with epoxy resin. Various carrier-supported cPCMs were incorporated into asphalt for comparative evaluation. The composites were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TG), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and leakage tests, while the modified asphalts were evaluated by DSC, conventional tests, dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), and bending beam rheometer (BBR). Results showed that epoxy encapsulation significantly enhanced integrity and durability. Among all carriers, red-mud-based cPCM exhibited the highest latent heat of 135.54J/g, zero leakage after 100 thermal cycles, and superior thermal stability with only 0.11% mass loss at 250 °C. The corresponding phase-change asphalt demonstrated excellent temperature-regulating capability and met pavement performance requirements under both high- and low-temperature conditions. Overall, this dual strategy effectively realizes long-term thermal regulation for asphalt pavements and promotes the sustainable reuse of solid waste materials such as red mud, offering a green and durable solution for smart, energy-responsive road systems.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:46:31 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2676393</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Thermal and Rheological Characteristics of Phase Change Materials in Asphalt Binder with an Extended Thermoregulation Range</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2643123</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Microencapsulated phase change materials (MPCMs) represent an innovative solution to potentially enhance performance of an asphalt binder and control rapid temperature fluctuations. However, the thermoregulation process primarily occurs within a limited range around the melting point of an MPCM. Thus, extending the thermoregulation range of MPCMs is necessary for improving the performance of asphalt binder across a wide range of temperatures. For this purpose, two MPCMs (melting points: 6°C and 28°C) were combined into M6+M28 (1∶1), and these were blended into base binders at dosages of 5%, 10%, and 20%. Then, samples were evaluated for thermoregulation range, long-term effective transfer, and survivability through thermal profiles and enthalpy ratios at different aging levels. Rheological validation involved determining the percentage change in complex modulus (G*) and phase angle (δ). The performance of combined MPCMs within the thermoregulation range was assessed using fatigue factors determined by a pressure aging vessel, overall rutting resistance via G* and δ measured by a rolling thin film oven, and overall fatigue cracking resistance using the Glover-Rowe parameter. Results showed that M6+M28 at any dosage and binder type controlled the stiffness and viscoelastic properties within an extended range of −12°C to 33°C, compared to −12°C to 16°C and 10°C to 33°C for individual MPCMs. The thermal stability of the combined MPCMs was found decrease with aging except in the soft grade binders at higher dosages. Additionally, M6+M28 improved the cracking performance within the thermoregulation range for both PG 58-28 and PG 64-22 binders, though the dosage impact varied. The Glover-Rowe parameter indicated improved fatigue cracking resistance at any dosage and for both binder types, whereas rutting resistance was enhanced only for PG 58-28 binders at any dosage.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:11:58 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2643123</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Thermally Conductive Pre-cast Concrete Pavement for Urban Heat Island Mitigation</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2673590</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Urban areas experience elevated pavement temperatures due to the urban heat island (UHI) effect, which increases cooling energy demand and associated carbon emissions. In this project, the work focused on three main components: (1) a comprehensive mechanical study of precast concrete mixes containing microencapsulated organic phase change material (PCM), (2) three-dimensional transient thermal finite element (FE) simulations, and (3) full-scale sidewalk testing evaluated using a Monthly Cooling Benefit Index (MCBI). The mechanical program quantified the influence of PCM dosage on workability and compressive strength and showed a clear trend of decreasing strength with increasing PCM content. However, mixes with moderate PCM dosages retained adequate strength for sidewalk applications, while still providing measurable cooling potential. The calibrated 3D FE model captured the main experimental trends by representing PCM as an increase in effective heat capacity and a reduction in thermal diffusivity. Simulation results confirmed that PCM integration consistently reduced peak surface temperatures relative to the control slab, with mid-range PCM contents offering the best balance between thermal moderation and mechanical performance. A full-scale pilot sidewalk with multiple precast segments—combining PCM with different surface finishes such as sandblasting and diamond grinding—was constructed on the University of Texas at San Antonio campus and monitored over continuous three months. Field measurements showed that segments with moderate PCM content (e.g., around 2.5%) coupled with reflective/high-albedo surface treatments achieved the most persistent reductions in surface temperature compared with the conventional control and PCM-only panels. When quantified using the MCBI, the sandblasted and diamond-ground PCM segments ranked highest, indicating that the combined strategy of moderate PCM dosage and optimized surface finishing provides the most effective and practical cooling benefit for UHI mitigation in urban sidewalks.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:54:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2673590</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Thermally Conductive Pre-cast Concrete Pavement for Urban Heat Island Mitigation [supporting dataset]</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2673607</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Abstract of the final report is stated below for reference: Urban areas experience elevated pavement temperatures due to the urban heat island (UHI) effect, which increases cooling energy demand and associated carbon emissions. In this project, the work focused on three main components: (1) a comprehensive mechanical study of precast concrete mixes containing microencapsulated organic phase change material (PCM), (2) three-dimensional transient thermal finite element (FE) simulations, and (3) full-scale sidewalk testing evaluated using a Monthly Cooling Benefit Index (MCBI). The mechanical program quantified the influence of PCM dosage on workability and compressive strength and showed a clear trend of decreasing strength with increasing PCM content. However, mixes with moderate PCM dosages retained adequate strength for sidewalk applications, while still providing measurable cooling potential. The calibrated 3D FE model captured the main experimental trends by representing PCM as an increase in effective heat capacity and a reduction in thermal diffusivity. Simulation results confirmed that PCM integration consistently reduced peak surface temperatures relative to the control slab, with mid-range PCM contents offering the best balance between thermal moderation and mechanical performance. A full-scale pilot sidewalk with multiple precast segments—combining PCM with different surface finishes such as sandblasting and diamond grinding—was constructed on the University of Texas at San Antonio campus and monitored over continuous three months. Field measurements showed that segments with moderate PCM content (e.g., around 2.5%) coupled with reflective/high-albedo surface treatments achieved the most persistent reductions in surface temperature compared with the conventional control and PCM-only panels. When quantified using the MCBI, the sandblasted and diamond-ground PCM segments ranked highest, indicating that the combined strategy of moderate PCM dosage and optimized surface finishing provides the most effective and practical cooling benefit for UHI mitigation in urban sidewalks.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:54:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2673607</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Computational analysis of ice formation on asphalt pavement incorporating phase change material (PCM)</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2643502</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The ice on the road surface could significantly reduce the skid resistance and pose a threat to traffic safety. To alleviate these safety issues, asphalt pavement incorporating phase change material (PCM) was developed to provide a sustainable anti-icing effect. A computational model was developed with the finite difference method to simulate the ice formation process. N-tetradecane-polymethyl methacrylate microcapsule powder was used to prepare asphalt concrete and experiments were conducted to validate the model. Results indicate that the average absolute error between the simulated and measured values is 1.2℃, which is acceptable. Compared to traditional models, this model considers the phase change of both the PCM-incorporated asphalt concrete (PCM-AC) and water-ice film. The analysis results indicate that the optimal phase change temperature for anti-icing is approximately 2–5°C. PCM-AC with higher thermal conductivity is more recommended, but when the thermal conductivity is reduced by 0.14–0.69 W·m−¹·K−¹, the anti-icing effect is more likely to be cancelled out. It is worth noting that there is an optimal thickness for the PCM-AC layer. The computational analysis helps transportation agencies understand the mechanism of ice formation on the PCM-incorporated pavement and the potential application of PCM in anti-icing.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Sun, 22 Feb 2026 14:58:35 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2643502</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Enhancing the Durability of Bridge Decks by Incorporating Microencapsulated Phase Change Materials (PCMs) in Concrete</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2666585</link>
      <description><![CDATA[In cold climate regions, repeated freezing and thawing during the winter months causes concrete on bridges and road surfaces to crack and deteriorate over time. This damage shortens the service life of transportation infrastructure and increases maintenance costs. To address this problem, this project explored the use of microencapsulated phase change materials (PCMs) in concrete. These materials can store and release heat as they freeze and melt. When temperatures drop, the PCMs release stored heat, helping to keep the concrete slightly warmer and reducing the number of freeze–thaw cycles that cause cracking and surface damage. A series of laboratory experiments was carried out to test different PCM types and amounts in concrete mixtures. The project also used machine learning tools to analyze the experimental data and predict how different PCM combinations would perform under various temperature conditions. The results showed that adding PCMs to concrete can significantly reduce freeze–thaw damage and improve long-term durability. The research provides a new, data-driven approach for designing more resilient and longer-lasting concrete for bridges and pavements in cold climates.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 09:11:51 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2666585</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Development and evaluation of asphalt binders incorporating binary shape-stabilized composite phase change materials</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2655998</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Phase change materials (PCMs) have been recognized as promising materials for thermoregulation in asphalt pavements. To improve the thermoregulation range and efficiency, two polyethylene glycols with different molecular weights (PEG2000 and PEG10000) were absorbed into the treated diatomite powder via vacuum adsorption to prepare the binary shape-stabilized composite PCMs (the PCMs). The diatomite powder was modified through a combined process of calcination, microwave irradiation, and acid–base treatment. The thermoregulation performance and properties of asphalt binders incorporating the PCMs were evaluated through a series of laboratory tests. Results indicate that the combined treatment significantly increases the diatomite total pore volume from 0.475 cm³ /g to 0.766 cm³ /g and its specific surface area from 30.2350 m²/g to 71.1170 m²/g. The PCMs with the mass ratio mPEG2000:mPEG10000 = 4:6 enables precise regulation of the phase change temperature within the range of 48.40℃-64.85℃, with corresponding latent heat values ranging from 180.52 J/g to 199.88 J/g. At a PCMs content of 20 %, the temperature rise rate of the asphalt binder decreased by 41.3 % while that within the phase transition plateau was reduced by as much as 62 %, indicating a significant thermoregulation effect. The incorporation of the PCMs increases the softening point, viscosity, rutting factor, and creep stiffness of asphalt binders. Nevertheless, it compromises the low-temperature performance, as evidenced by decreased ductility and a lower penetration index. The appropriate content of the PCMs should be determined by balancing high- and low-temperature performance according to practical requirements.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 09:21:20 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2655998</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Temperature-regulating asphalt mixture incorporating phase change and high-reflective materials: Thermal behavior and mechanical performance</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2625093</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Extreme seasonal temperature fluctuations pose substantial challenges to asphalt pavement performance, particularly under intense summer heat and winter freeze–thaw cycles. This study compares the effects of individual and combined use of phase change materials (PCM) and high-reflectivity materials (HRM) on asphalt properties, while also investigating the effects of dry and wet incorporation of HRM and the dry incorporation of PCM to determine the most effective incorporation method. A series of laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate the mechanical and thermal regulation performance of the mixtures. Mechanical characterization included Marshall stability, dynamic modulus, uniaxial creep, and moisture stability tests, providing a comprehensive assessment of structural behavior. Thermal regulation performance is examined through environmental simulations designed to replicate seasonal environmental conditions, such as solar heating to simulate high summer temperatures, laboratory freezing to reproduce winter freeze conditions, and low-temperature ice-pulling tests. Results show that HRM enhances high-temperature stability and stiffness, while PCM improves low-temperature ductility and resistance to freeze–thaw damage. The dual-modified mixtures maintain structural integrity while offering improved mechanical balance. In terms of thermal regulation, HRM effectively reduces asphalt surface temperatures by up to 5–6 °C under solar exposure, particularly when applied via wet mixing, which improves material dispersion and integration. PCM demonstrates strong self-deicing potential by delaying freezing onset and weakening ice adhesion through latent heat release. The combined use of HRM and PCM achieves complementary thermal control effects in both summer and winter scenarios. In particular, wet mixing ensures better material dispersion and interfacial bonding, resulting in more stable temperature regulation and enhanced mechanical performance compared to dry mixing. This study provides new insights into the synergistic design of thermally adaptive asphalt mixtures, offering methodological reference for developing climate-resilient pavements.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2026 08:44:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2625093</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Interfacial behavior of SBS in thermoregulation and rheological properties of PUSSP-modified asphalt</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2636391</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This study aims to enhance the rheological performance of polyurethane solid–solid phase change (PUSSP) modified asphalt by developing a PUSSP/SBS composite system with improved phase stability and thermoregulation. The thermoregulation capacity and heat storage performance of the composites were evaluated through temperature monitoring tests and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), while the rheological behavior across service temperatures was characterized using a dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) and bending beam rheometer (BBR). In addition, the interfacial interactions and microstructural features were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), fluorescence microscopy (FM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM), linking the performance improvement to colloidal structures and surface effects within the asphalt binder. The results reveal that the thermoregulation performance of PUSSP-modified asphalt significantly improves with increasing PUSSP content. During the heating phase, ΔtP-B and ΔTP-B for 10 wt% PUSSP-modified asphalt increased by 54.4 % and 65.5 %, respectively, compared with 5 wt% PUSSP. This enhancement is primarily attributed to the increased heat storage capacity of the PUSSP colloids, which plays a decisive role in thermal regulation. Although PUSSP-modified asphalt demonstrates superior rutting resistance at elevated temperatures, its low-temperature creep resistance is inferior to that of conventional asphalt. At equivalent PUSSP content, the thermoregulation of PUSSP/SBS composite-modified asphalt remains comparable to that of PUSSP-modified asphalt, whereas its rheological properties at both high and low temperatures are markedly improved. Notably, the 5 % PUSSP/5 % SBS composite achieves a PG classification of 82–22. The performance improvement mainly stems from the SBS-induced cross-linking network, which strengthens PUSSP-modified asphalt interfacial bonding and enhances compatibility, micro-elasticity, and crack resistance. Consequently, the cooperative PUSSP–SBS interfacial mechanism achieves a balanced enhancement of rheological and thermoregulatory properties. These findings provide a feasible modification strategy for developing multifunctional asphalt materials, offering meaningful guidance for improving pavement performance in temperature-extreme service environments.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 31 Dec 2025 10:58:24 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2636391</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Development of Thermally Enhanced Cementitious Materials with Microencapsulated PCM for Railway Infrastructure</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2636138</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This study presents the development and pilot application of cementitious materials incorporating microencapsulated phase change materials (PCMs) for thermal regulation in rubber-tired Automated Guideway Transit (AGT) systems. Unlike previous PCM studies limited to buildings, this work demonstrates their first use in railway infrastructure. Material tests confirmed that PCM incorporation increased water and superplasticizer demand and reduced compressive strength, with up to a 36.7% loss at 30% replacement. Despite this trade-off, DSC and dynamic heat flow tests showed stable phase-change behavior and a significant heat-buffering effect, delaying internal temperature rise from 20 to 40 °C by up to 80 min. A pilot-scale test section of the K-AGT system was prepared, in which PCM-incorporated concrete was cast only at the top surface in contact with the wheels. This preliminary field application, the first of its kind in railway infrastructure, demonstrated the feasibility of the localized use of PCM-enhanced materials for addressing heat accumulation.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2025 09:46:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2636138</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Application and performance evaluation of TMUF-MPCMs in concrete pavement: Mechanical behavior and durability investigation</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2633883</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Concrete pavements in cold regions are highly susceptible to deterioration from freeze-thaw cycles, which challenge durability and maintenance. This study investigates the incorporation of 4 % and 6 % Tetradecane-Melamine-Urea-Formaldehyde microencapsulated phase-change materials (TMUF-MPCMs) in concrete mixtures to improve durability and thermal regulation. Microstructural analysis confirmed the successful synthesis of spherical, thermally stable microcapsules. While the addition of TMUF-MPCMs reduced workability (approximately 20 % slump reduction) and compressive strength (by 26 % and 30 % for the 4 % and 6 % mixes, respectively), flexural strength improved significantly, with the 6 % mixture exceeding FAA requirements. Most notably, TMUF-MPCMs dramatically enhanced freeze-thaw resistance, retaining over 90 % of their relative dynamic modulus of elasticity after 300 cycles compared to 76 % for conventional concrete, while exhibiting negligible mass loss and crack formation. Microstructural evidence suggests self-healing behavior through calcite precipitation at the microcapsule interfaces. A composite performance index ranked the 6 % TMUF-MPCM mixture as optimal, and multi-objective optimization identified 5.9 % as the ideal dosage to balance mechanical performance and durability. Despite some reduction in compressive strength, TMUF–MPCMs offer a promising dual-functional strategy to enhance the durability and sustainability of concrete pavements in cold regions. The self-healing response was confined to the microscale. At the same time, the potential reduction in deicer dependence is inferred from laboratory-based thermal and durability enhancements rather than verified under field conditions.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 22 Dec 2025 17:03:49 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2633883</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Freeze-thaw performance of phase change material (PCM) incorporated pavement subgrade soil</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2606008</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Phase Change Materials (PCMs) can store and release large amounts of energy in the form of latent heat during their phase changes, which could be utilized in controlling the freeze-thaw impact on pavement foundation systems. Untreated, and Class C fly ash-treated loess soil amended with three different dosages of paraffin-based liquid, and microencapsulated PCMs were evaluated using unconfined compression, volume change, and frost heave tests. The results of this research support the use of PCMs in controlling the freeze-thaw effect on subgrade soil. Further recommendations are provided on PCMs selection, composite type PCMs, incorporation method, and chemical stability.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2025 10:23:28 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2606008</guid>
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