Complex Modulus and Fatigue Resistance of Different Bituminous Binders and Corresponding Mixtures Containing Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement

Abstract

The objective of the paper is to investigate the influence of bitumen nature on complex modulus and fatigue resistance of bituminous mixtures produced with reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP). Eight distinct mixtures were produced with eight different modified and unmodified base binders. RAP content was fixed equal to 20% for all mixtures. For each mixture, the corresponding binder blend was produced by mixing the base binder with RAP-extracted binder, in the same proportions. A total of 16 binders (eight base binders and eight binder blends) were therefore used in the study. Both advanced and classical tests commonly used by road paving industry in Europe were performed. Complex modulus (at 15°C and 10 Hz) and fatigue (at 10°C and 25 Hz) DSR tests were carried out on all binders. Two-point bending complex modulus (at 15°C and 10 Hz) and fatigue (at 10°C and 25 Hz) tests were carried out on trapezoidal samples of mixtures. Complex modulus and fatigue resistance of mixtures appeared to vary significantly depending on the nature of the base binder. However, clear correspondences between values obtained for mixtures and corresponding binders could not be found.