Evaluation of the Rheological Properties of Virgin and Aged Asphalt Blends

Abstract

To evaluate the effects of the source and admixture of aged asphalt on the rheological properties of reclaimed asphalt binders, the relative viscosity (Δη), relative rutting factor (ΔG*/sinδ), and relative fatigue factor (ΔG*sinδ) were selected as evaluation indicators based on the Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) tests to characterize the rheological properties of a reclaimed asphalt binder under medium- and high-temperature conditions. The results of the study showed that the viscosity, rutting factor, and fatigue factor of the reclaimed asphalt binder increased with the addition of aged asphalt; however, the effect of the source and admixture of aged asphalt could not be assessed. The relative viscosity, relative rutting factor, and relative fatigue factor are sensitive to the source, admixture, temperature, and aging conditions, which shows the superiority of these indicators. Moreover, the relative viscosity and relative rutting factor decreased linearly with increasing temperature under high-temperature conditions, while the relative fatigue factor increased linearly with increasing temperature under medium-temperature conditions. In addition, the linear trends of the three indicators were independent of the source and admixture of aged asphalt. These results indicate that the evaluation method used in this study can be used to assess the effects of virgin asphalt and aged asphalt on the rheological properties of reclaimed asphalt binders, and has the potential for application. The viscosity of recycled asphalt increases, and the rutting factor and fatigue factor both increase. The high-temperature stability of reclaimed asphalt is improved, and the fatigue crack resistance is weakened.