A mechanistic evaluation of mixes containing conventional and polymer modified (styrelf) asphalts (with discussion)

TLDR: In this article, the effectiveness and potential of polymer modified binders in improving the structural properties of asphaltic mixtures was evaluated and it was demonstrated that the styrelf improves the performance of asphalt concrete mixtures.

Abstract: Since a highway engineer is usually limited to his choice of asphalt sources, there is a need for a practical way to improve asphalt quality by the addition of modifying ingredients. In this regard it is believed that polymer modified asphalt cements (styrelf) may provide mixtures with improved durability and wear resistance. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that the styrelf improves the performance of asphalt concrete mixtures. Accordingly, this research work was conducted to verify the effectiveness and potential of polymer modified binders in improving the structural properties of asphaltic mixtures; namely, resilient modulus, fatigue life, resistance to rutting, and mitigation of low temperature cracking.