Effect of different high viscosity modifiers on rheological properties of high viscosity asphalt

High viscosity asphalt (HVA) has been a great success as a drainage pavement material. However, the larger porosity of drainage asphalt mixtures weakens the cohesion and adhesion and leads to premature rutting, water damage, spalling and cracking. The purpose of this study was to investigate the rheological properties of HVA prepared using different high viscosity modifiers through conventional tests, Brookfield viscosity tests, dynamic shear rheometer tests and bending beam rheometer tests. The conventional performance results demonstrated SBS + rubber asphalt (SRA-1/2) exhibited excellent elastic recovery and low-temperature flexibility. The 60°C dynamic viscosity results indicated TPS + rubber asphalt (TRA) had the excellent adhesion. The rotational viscosity results and rheological results indicated that SRA-2 not only exhibited excellent temperature stability and workability, as well as excellent resistance to deformation and rutting resistance, but also exhibited excellent low-temperature cracking resistance and relaxation performance. Based on rheological results, the PG classification of HVA was 16% rubber + asphalt for PG76-22, 20% rubber + asphalt for PG88-22, TRA and SRA-1/2 for PG88-28. From comprehensive evaluation of the viscosity, temperature stability and sensitivity, as well as high/low temperature performance of HVA, SRA-2 was found to be more suited to the requirements of drainage asphalt pavement materials.