Microstructure and rheological properties of aged and unaged polymer-modified asphalt binders

Abstract

The effects of ageing on the microstructure and dynamic rheological properties of three modified asphalt binders are investigated. The asphalt modifiers used comprise crumb rubber (CR), styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) block copolymer and a blend or combination of CR and SBS (CCR). To investigate the modified asphalts microstructure, scanning electron microscopy is applied, while for assessing rheological properties at a wide range of temperature, Bending Beam Rheometry and Dynamic Shear Rheometry are employed. Ageing of asphalt during construction and under service conditions is simulated using the rolling thin film oven test and the Pressurised Ageing Vessel procedures. It is observed that ageing makes all three modified asphalts harder, increases their resistance to deformation under high temperatures, and decreases their fatigue and cracking resistance at low temperatures. Comparatively, the CR maintains its bond with the asphalt better than the SBS and the CR-modified asphalt exhibits lower stiffness and lower degree of ageing under cold temperature, while it shows the highest resistance to high-temperature deformation and fatigue. On the contrary, the SBS-modified asphalt exhibits the worst performance in practically every respect compared to the CR-and CCR-modified asphalts.

Field and laboratory performance evaluation of a field-blended rubber asphalt.

“…However, when comparing the modified binders, the rubber asphalt should provide a better resistance to rutting than the SBS binder. Wang et al (2015) observed similar trends when comparing rubber asphalt and SBS binders. as an initiative to improve mixture design, uses the performance grade (PG) system to select asphalt binders based on the expected pavement temperatures.…”

Understanding the Aging Depth Gradient Distribution of High Viscosity Modified Asphalt under the Effect of Solar Radiation and Diffuse Oxygen

“…Therefore, it is more suitable for simulating the aging of large-void permeable asphalt pavements and HVMA in comparison with the PAV test . In the weathering aging test, the aging caused by temperature is almost the same as standard PAV aging. ,, The effect of humidity and solar radiation is the unique feature of weathering aging compared with PAV aging. Humidity is not a significant aging factor in weathering aging.…”

“…11 In the weathering aging test, the aging caused by temperature is almost the same as standard PAV aging. 10,15,16 The effect of humidity and solar radiation is the unique feature of weathering aging compared with PAV aging. Humidity is not a significant aging factor in weathering aging.…”

Characterization of Desulfurized Crumb Rubber/Styrene–Butadiene–Styrene Composite Modified Asphalt Based on Rheological Properties

“…One of the effective methods is to use various modifiers to decrease the stiffness modulus of asphalt at low temperatures and increase the complex modulus at high temperatures. Therefore, modified asphalt is being vigorously developed as an alternative road construction material [ 5 ]. Styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS) copolymers are the most common modifiers used to enhance the performance and extend the service life of asphalt pavements [ 6 , 7 ].…”