Diffusion Mechanism of Rejuvenator and Its Effects on the Physical and Rheological Performance of Aged Asphalt Binder

Using rejuvenator to improve the asphalt pavement service state has become an increasing concern in recent years. This study mainly focuses on the diffusion analysis between rejuvenator and aged asphalt, and further rheological influences by addition of rejuvenators. First, two rejuvenators, oil rejuvenator (OR) and penetrative rejuvenator (PR), were prepared in the laboratory. Afterward, the diffused performance of rejuvenators was investigated by viscosity, contact angle, and three self-designed feasible test indexes, which were sinking time test, softening rate test, and gravitational collapsing test. Beside the comparison in physical properties tests of aged and rejuvenated asphalt, their rheological performances were also evaluated by dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) and bending beam rheometer (BBR) respectively. The results indicated that three proposed indexes can comparatively analyze the diffusion rate of different rejuvenators on aged asphalt effectively. Furthermore, all adopted test indexes signaled that PR has a faster diffusion rate and better penetrative efficiency. Comparatively, exceeding rejuvenator dosage would increase the rutting possibility. Nevertheless, 2.5 wt% addition dosage for both OR and PR into aged asphalt can promote appropriate improvement in physical properties and crack resistance. The study would supply a significant reference for penetrative rejuvenator preparation and its diffusing evaluation.