Abstract
The application of various modifiers has emerged in recent years to improve conventional petroleum-based bitumen properties. The natural asphalt called Trinidad Lake Asphalt (TLA) has been applied very often due to its consistent properties, high viscosity and density, and superior rheological properties, and effective blending with other bitumen. However, most studies on TLA-modified binders always focused on physical and rheological properties in the original (unaged) condition, but the details about aging properties are often neglected. This study aimed to investigate the effect of short-term aging on the physical and rheological characteristics of the 35/50 base bitumen modified by the addition of two different TLA contents. The conventional physical tests and dynamic shear rheological tests were undertaken before and after aging to measure the penetration and softening point, complex shear modulus, and phase angle of the modified binders, as well as to calculate the zero shear viscosity using the Cross model fitting procedure. Based on the results of the above-mentioned comprehensive testing, the effect of aging on TLA-modified binder properties was evaluated using aging indices, as well as a direct comparison of results. The tests revealed that the short-term aging of TLA-modified binders did not worsen or reduce the pavement resistance to permanent deformation or the load-bearing capacity of the asphalt mixture.
Highlights
To improve conventional petroleum-based bitumen properties due to the increased demand for longer pavement service life, the application of various modifiers has emerged in recent years as a viable solution [1,2,3,4,5,6]
This study aimed to investigate the effect of short-term aging on the physical and rheological characteristics of the 35/50 base bitumen modified by the addition of two different Trinidad Lake Asphalt (TLA) contents
In the case of TLA, small deviations from the requirements were revealed. This was due to the fact that the natural asphalt supplied by the manufacturer was covered by diatomite and is added to the mixer in this form
Summary
To improve conventional petroleum-based bitumen properties due to the increased demand for longer pavement service life, the application of various modifiers has emerged in recent years as a viable solution [1,2,3,4,5,6] Among these modifiers, the natural asphalt called Trinidad Lake Asphalt (TLA) has been applied very often as a bitumen modifier. TLA can be added to any bituminous mixture, in any quantity, at any time, and mixed at elevated temperatures with no degradation or loss of performance. It is routinely used in asphalt concrete (AC) and mastic asphalt (MA) pavements. TLA has been well used in modern thin bridge pavement systems [11,12,13,14]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
