Enhancing Pavement Performance Through Organosilane Nanotechnology: Improved Roughness Index and Load-Bearing Capacity

The increasing demand for sustainable road infrastructure necessitates alternative materials that enhance soil stabilization while reducing environmental impact. This study investigated the application of organosilane-based nanotechnology to improve the structural performance and durability of road corridors in Peru, offering a viable alternative to conventional stabilization methods. A comparative experimental approach was employed, where modified soil and asphalt mixtures were evaluated against control samples without nanotechnology. Laboratory tests showed that organosilane-treated soil achieved up to a 100% increase in the California Bearing Ratio (CBR), while maintaining expansion below 0.5%, significantly reducing moisture susceptibility compared to untreated soil. Asphalt mixtures incorporating nanotechnology-based adhesion enhancers exhibited a Tensile Strength Ratio (TSR) exceeding 80%, ensuring a superior resistance to moisture-induced damage relative to conventional mixtures. Non-destructive evaluations, including Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) and Pavement Condition Index (PCI) tests, confirmed the improved long-term durability and load-bearing capacity. Furthermore, statistical analysis of the International Roughness Index (IRI) revealed a mean value of 2.449 m/km, which is well below the Peruvian regulatory threshold of 3.5 m/km, demonstrating a significant improvement over untreated pavements. Furthermore, a comparative reference to IRI standards from other countries contextualized these results. This research underscores the potential of nanotechnology to enhance pavement resilience, optimize resource utilization, and advance sustainable construction practices.