This study evaluates a modified asphalt binder's performance in cold climates, revealing optimal crumb rubber content and blending time for pavement design.
High Modulus Asphalt Concrete (HMAC) offers superior stiffness and durability, making it suitable for hot/mild climates and heavy traffic. However, its performance in cold regions is limited due to binder brittleness at low temperatures. To address this, High Performance Asphalt Concrete (HPAC) tailored for cold climates is needed. This study investigates the optimization of Crumb Rubber Modifier (CRM) content to develop HPAC targeting a high-temperature PG of 82. A PG 64-22 binder was modified with 30-mesh CRM at concentrations of 3–15% and blended for 30–90 minutes at 180°C. Dynamic modulus testing revealed that 12% CRM achieves the desired PG 82, balancing stiffness and flexibility. Blending time had minimal effect on PG grade, suggesting that shorter blending durations are feasible, supporting in-field blending. While phase separation and storage stability remain concerns, in-field blending minimizes these issues and enhances practical applicability of CRM-modified HPAC for cold climate pavement design.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Enoyoze et al. (2025) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: