Study of crumb rubber materials as paving asphalt modifiers

Abstract

Waste tire crumb rubber materials (CRM) were used to modify paving asphalts. The mixing time, hot-storage stability, Superpave grades, pumping and handling properties, phase separation tests, and repeated creep properties of the modified asphalts were studied using base asphalts of different hardness. Applying the Long-Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) program and the Transportation Association of Canada (TAC) model, optimal levels of CRM and suitable base asphalts were selected for the climatic conditions of Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. High-temperature grade bumping protocol, regarding traffic volume and speed, was also considered. With joint efforts from the Tire Recycling Management Association of Alberta (TRMA), Husky Energy, and the City of Lethbridge, three test sections in different Lethbridge locations with various traffic volumes were paved from the years 2003 to 2005. So far, the City of Lethbridge is pleased with the initial performance of the test sections.Key words: waste tire, crumb rubber materials (CRM), paving asphalt, recycled, modification, Superpave, repeated creep, field test.