Impact Assessment of Mixing Conditions on Rubberized Asphalt Binder

Abstract

Abstract The objective of this study was to enhance the efficiency of the approach employed for preparing asphalt binders modified with waste rubber nanomaterial. A high-shear mixer has been utilized, with revaluation rates of 3000, 4000, 5000, and 6000 rpm. In addition, a mixing time of 30 minutes was employed. Four different waste rubber nanomaterial dosages were used: 0.5%, 1%, 1.5 %, and 2% by weight of asphalt cement, respectively. The asphalt binder was heated to 140 °C. The characteristics of the modified asphalt binder, including penetration grade, softening point temperature, temperature sensitivity, rotational viscosity, and ductility, were analyzed. The study demonstrated that incorporating waste rubber nanomaterial as a modifier improved the physical characteristics of the asphalt binder. Overall, the study revealed decreased penetration and increased softening point temperature and viscosity values. Additionally, the temperature sensitivity was enhanced. In addition, high shear mixing proved to be more efficient in achieving a thorough dispersion of waste rubber nanomaterial particles within the asphalt binder, resulting in a uniform composite binder. The tested samples demonstrated that adding a dosage of 1 % waste rubber nanomaterial enhanced the physical characteristics of asphalt, making it more suitable for the construction of highway pavements in hot weather conditions.