Assessing the Role of High Thermal Resistance Aggregates in Mitigating Urban Heat Islands (UHI) with Asphalt Mixtures

The study addresses the growing concern of urban heat islands (UHIs) in cities, which lead to higher temperatures and increased energy usage. It explores the potential of utilizing high thermal resistance materials in asphalt mixtures to combat the UHI effect. The research specifically examines how varying amounts of these materials impact pavement temperature and heat transfer processes. Through laboratory experiments and data analysis, the study found that increasing the proportion of high thermal resistance materials in asphalt mixtures enhances the pavement’s thermal properties. This enhancement results in reduced heat absorption and lower surface temperatures during the day. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need to consider factors like pavement design, local climate conditions, and types of materials when determining the optimal percentage of high thermal resistance aggregates for UHI mitigation. The findings suggest that incorporating higher proportions of materials like glass, ceramic, and clay brick in asphalt mixtures shows promise in reducing UHI effects.