The effect of polymer modified binders on the long-term performance of bituminous mixtures: The influence of temperature

Abstract

Abstract Asphalt pavements are very susceptible to the effects of temperature, and their mechanical performance is affected by the climatological conditions to which they are exposed. Polymer-modified binders have been developed in order to reduce the impact of temperature on these infrastructures. Although these binders allow for a more stable response and an improvement in the properties of bituminous mixtures, the increase in costs associated with their production makes them less competitive in comparison with traditional binders, and their use is restricted to surface layers and roads with high levels of traffic. Furthermore, at certain temperatures, traditional laboratory tests used during the design of bituminous mixtures have failed to reveal many differences in performance between conventional and modified bitumens. In order to assess the real benefits of using polymer-modified binders, this research evaluates the long-term performance of asphalt mixtures at different temperatures. The study was carried out at both binder and mixture level, and the results showed that the effect induced by the presence of polymers is closely linked to the temperature at which they are tested. Thus, their effectiveness will depend on the climatic conditions to which they are exposed.