Performance indicators for low temperature cracking

Title: Performance indicators for low temperature cracking
Author(s): H. Soenen, A. Vanelstraete
Paper category : conference
Book title: Sixth International RILEM Symposium on Performance Testing and Evaluation of Bituminous Materials
Editor(s): M. N. Partl
Print-ISBN: 2-912143-35-7
e-ISBN: 2912143772
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2003
Pages: 458 - 464
Total Pages: 7
Nb references: 20
Language: English

Abstract: Results from binder test methods, believed to be relevant regarding low temperature cracking have been evaluated, making use of literature and common data (BRRC and Nynas) of binders belonging to different penetration classes. The data include bending beam rheometer results (BBR), Fraass breaking temperatures and some direct tensile test data. When possible, they were compared with Thermal Stress Restrained Specimen Tests (TSRST) on the corresponding asphalt mixes. Unmodified and modified binders were considered. Out of these tests, BBR seems, at this moment to be the best binder test to predict low temperature behaviour, it is suitable for unmodified binders and still acceptably good for polymer modified binders.
The database made it possible:
- to compare the BBR-temperatures corresponding to the S(60s) = 300 MPa - and the m(60s) = 0,3 - criteria, for a large number of binders.
- to obtain ranges for the highest limiting BBR-temperatures and mix fracture temperatures for different grades of bitumen.
It follows from this database that the addition of polymer generally has only a limited effect on the highest limiting BBR temperature compared to the original base binder. However, if binders of the same penetration class are compared, polymer modified binders generally perform better at low temperatures. Ageing as well as blowing of bitumen binders generally leads to a higher effect on the limiting temperature deduced from the m-value than on the temperature deduced from the S-value. The consequences of this with regard to low temperature cracking need to be further evaluated.

Online publication: 2003-03-02
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00
doi: 10.1617/2912143772.057