Development of Asphalt Pavements with Photoluminescent Stones to Improve Nighttime Road Safety in High-Andean Regions

Gonzales J.W.G.; Peña C.G.A.; Puertas J.J.C.; Terbullino G.F.M. · SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering (2026) · DOI: 10.14445/23488352/ijce-v13i8p111

Resumen

High Andean regions present specific challenges that are particularly related to poor visibility at night time and a high incidence of road accidents, which are intensified by the limited availability of public lighting infrastructure. This present study proposes the development of hot-mix asphalt incorporating photoluminescent stones (COLORCEM LUX) as a partial substitution for conventional coarse aggregate, with the purpose to improve road safety during nighttime conditions. Briquettes were designed through the Marshall approach with PEN 60/70 asphalt cement in portions of of 4.5%, 5.0%, 5.5%, and 6.0%, keeping the photoluminescent aggregate content constant at 60.9%. The results obtained indicate that the optimal asphalt cement content is of 5.5% with a Marshall stability with a maximum value of 12.3 kN, as well as a density of 2.35 g/cm3. In terms of luminous performance, the same dosage showed an initial illuminance of 210 lux and still maintained 85 lux after 60 minutes of darkness. Therefore, the outcomes suggest that the controlled incorporation of photoluminescent material does not compromise the mechanical performance of the asphalt mixture and represents a sustainable solution for improving nighttime visibility on access roads serving High Andean communities.

Instituciones: Universidad Continental