Qualitative Evaluation for Asphalt Binder Modified with SBS Polymer

Abstract

Solutions for safer, more durable infrastructure are required in light of increasing traffic and severe weather in Iraq. The most significant road conservation and maintenance challenges are the pavement's low resistance to dynamic loads and short service life. As a result, vast sums of money are spent annually to enhance the road service capacities in Iraq. Thermoplastic electrometric polymers for bitumen modification create long-lasting, cost-effective roadways. This study aims to determine how the mechanical properties of neat asphalt binder change when styrene butadiene styrene (SBS) is added as a modifier. The current research investigates adding three percentages of SBS (3, 5, and 7% of the weight of bitumen). Both neat and polymer-modified bitumen (PMB) were subjected to a series of physical laboratory and Superpave tests, including a dynamic shear rheometer tester (DSR) and a storage stability test. In addition, a chemical analysis test was conducted to identify any change in the neat binder chemical composition due to the addition of SBS polymer. The results indicated that 5% of SBS polymer was the optimum addition percentage to the local asphalt in Iraq. Additionally, it reduced the susceptibility of bitumen to temperature changes and enhanced its characteristics in all laboratory tests. The obtained PMB significantly improved rutting and fatigue factors compared to the neat asphalt binder. Based on the DSR tester and the storage stability test, the ratio of 5% SBS met the requirements of class PG76-10, used in the central and southern governorates of Iraq. Using SBS polymer on the surface course in Iraq reduces road damage due to the scorching summer sun, reduces the likelihood of rutting and fatigue cracking, and works well in hot regions, resulting in roads that last longer, provide comfortable riding, and require less maintenance.