Highly Elastic Asphalt Binders for Use in Cold Regions Paving Applications

• Project Description: This study aims to develop highly elastic asphalt binders that are capable of withstanding the harsh cold arctic and subarctic environments. Military specifications for use of highly elastic binders will also be prepared based on the outcomes of this study.
• Funding Agency: DOD
• Funding: $540,758
• Abstract: There is consensus among researchers that different types of modifiers can be used to improve the elastic properties of asphalt binders at low temperatures. However, very limited information is available pertaining to the performance of mixtures prepared with highly elastic modified asphalt binders, especially at low temperatures. This study is initiated with the objective of developing highly elastic modified asphalt binders that are capable of withstanding the excessive deformations and ultimately producing superior crack-resistant asphalt mixtures. A comprehensive laboratory testing plan for modifying asphalt binders and evaluating their elastic properties will be conducted. Asphalt mixtures will also be prepared and their performance will be evaluated. In general, the research team will conduct Time-Temperature Sweep, Linear Amplitude Sweep (LAS), Single Edge-Notched Beam (SENB), and morphological binder tests to optimize dosages of various asphalt binder modifiers. In addition, the research team will conduct the Dynamic Complex Modulus, Semi-Circular Bend (SCB), Thermal Stress Restrained Specimen Test (TSRST), and Bending Beam Fatigue Tests to characterize the cracking potential of asphalt mixtures prepared using highly elastic asphalt binders.