Evaluation of the effects of textile fibre derived from end-of-life tyres (TFELT) on the rheological behaviour of asphalt binders

Abstract

End-of-Life Tyres (ELT) consist of rubber, steel and textile fibre (TFELT). Unlike rubber and steel, the possibilities for the re-use of TFELT are limited, and its final disposal is an environmental problem. This article explores an alternative re-use of TFELT as an additive for asphalt binder (AB). The TFELT was characterised using scanning electron microscope (SEM), polarized microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Two Asphalt Binders (AB14 and AB24) and three addition percentages (0.1%, 0.3% and 0.5%) were evaluated. The effects on the physical properties at high, intermediate and low temperature were studied by determining the softening point, penetration and FRAASS breaking point. We also evaluated the effects on the rheological properties, by determining the rutting and fatigue parameters at different states of ageing (short and long term). Resistance to the accumulation of deformations was measured by applying the Multiple Stress Creep Recovery test (MSCR), and resistance to fatigue by the Linear Amplitude Sweep test (LAS). The results showed significant effects in reducing the accumulation of permanent deformation, by up to 40% for the addition of 0.5% TFELT, without any reduction in properties of resistance to thermal cracking.