A new protocol for measuring bituminous mastic viscosity as a function of its filler concentration

Abstract

In this contribution the development and results of a new test protocol for measuring the viscosity of bituminous mastics are presented. The paper describes the various considerations that need to be taken into account when dealing with mastics, gives a detailed description of the sample preparation, the test set-up and the actual test performance. A demonstration of the use of the test procedure is given by developing three types of mastics in which different filler types, but a similar bitumen base, were used. From the results it can be seen that the developed protocol is sensitive enough to allow for detailed studies of the effect of filler shape, chemistry and size distribution. In continuation of this work, more types of mastics will be investigated and the test results will be linked to additional chemical and mechanical test results to further enhance the fundamental understanding of mastics.

Effect of filler nature and content on the bituminous mastic behaviour under cyclic loads

“…Hesami et al [12,13] developed an empirical framework for determining mastic viscosity as a function of filler concentration, demonstrating once again the complexity of studying the behaviour of bituminous mastics.…”