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Abstract for presentation (Poster or Podium) with a Paper in the Conference Proceedings

Highway Pavements

Aging mechanisms of polymer- and non-polymer-modified asphalt binders

Monday, June 17, 2024
10:15 AM - 11:30 AM ET
Room: Galleria
Abstract: Asphalt binder aging alters its chemical and mechanical characteristics, contributing to pavement distresses such as cracking, raveling, and moisture-induced damage. Aging is primarily driven by the evaporation of volatile components and a reduction of the maltene phase due to oxidation of specific functional groups within asphalt binder. Oxygen diffusion, which elevates the concentration of polar components within the binder, leads to its overall embrittlement. To this end, the oxidative aging indices of two polymer-modified (PG 64-28 and PG 58-34) and a non-modified (PG 58-28) binder were determined through a chemical analysis. In addition, the mechanical properties of the asphalt binders subjected to aging were evaluated. To accomplish this goal, asphalt binders were subjected to aging in a rolling-thin film oven and a pressure aging vessel to simulate construction and service aging conditions, respectively. The evolution of oxidative aging was analyzed based on the chemical aging index determined using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and the rheological aging index measured using a dynamic shear rheometer. These analytical techniques facilitated tracking changes in chemical composition and rheological properties. The outcomes of this study will underline different mechanisms involved in the aging of polymer-modified and non-modified asphalt binders.

Learning Objectives:

Attendees can expect to learn the following from this session:
  • Upon completion, participant will be able to gain an understanding on the chemical alteration of asphalt binder subjected to aging.
  • Upon completion, participant will be able to gain an understanding on the differences in aging mechanisms of the polymer-modified and non-modified binders.
  • Understand the effect of aging and polymer modification on the mechanical properties of the binder.