Assessing the effects of copolymer modifier addition on asphalt attributes: Towards achieving performance optimization

Abstract

The use of polymers to modify asphalt binders has become a widely accepted practice in modern pavement construction, offering a promising solution to address key factors contributing to asphalt pavement deficiencies. These factors include issues such as rutting, moisture-induced deterioration, and fatigue-related wear. The copolymer referred to as PGXpand was utilized as the modifying additive for the virgin binder in this study. It demonstrates exceptional performance in terms of high-temperature resilience and resistance to rutting. The impact of incorporating the PGXpand on asphalt properties was investigated. A comprehensive series of tests were conducted, covering storage stability, penetration, softening point, ductility, viscosity, and elastic recovery. Further analyses involved calculations of stiffness modulus, complex modulus, and phase angle. Mechanical and performance evaluations were also carried out, including Marshall properties, moisture susceptibility, creep compliance, and Kim tests. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the PGXpand in enhancing asphalt performance, with modified mixtures exhibiting significant improvements compared to their unmodified counterparts. Consequently, integrating the PGXpand into asphalt technology emerges as a highly promising approach for optimizing road infrastructure, especially in regions with high-temperature conditions. Ultimately, such integration contributes substantially to the development of sustainable and resilient transportation networks.