Performance evaluation of new warm mix asphalt and water stability of its mixture based on laboratory tests

Abstract

To confirm the reliability of self-developed ZYF-1 warm mix additive and provide some references for the promotion and application of ZYF-1, the conventional performance test and Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) test of SK90# asphalt and SBS modified asphalt containing ZYF-1 were conducted. The commonly used warm mix additives of Sasobit and Aspha-min were also tested. Meanwhile, the splitting test and Cantabro test of warm mix asphalt mixture before and after freeze-thaw cycles were conducted to evaluate the long-term water stability. The beam fatigue test and Wheel Tracking test were also carried out to verify other road performance of asphalt mixture with ZYF-1. The results show that ZYF-1 greatly improves the low temperature property of asphalt and has little adverse effect on high temperature performance. After mixed with Sasobit and Aspha-min additive, the high temperature property of asphalt is improved, but the low temperature performance is weakened. ZYF-1 and Sasobit significantly reduces the high temperature viscosity of asphalt binder, while Aspha-min makes the viscosity slightly increase. 4% by the weight of asphalt is recommended as the reasonable dosage for ZYF-1 based on the variation of asphalt performance. Freeze-thaw cycle simulation obviously influences the water stability of warm mix asphalt mixture, and 15 freeze-thaw cycles are recommended for the evaluation of water stability. Among tested additives, the deterioration range of water stability for asphalt mixture caused by ZYF-1 is the smallest. The warm mix asphalt mixture containing ZYF-1 effectively reduce the construction temperature while ensuring the road performance.