Effect of Processed Oil on Asphalt Binder Properties

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Civil Engineering
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Asphalt binders are crucial in pavement construction.
• Modifying asphalt properties can enhance pavement durability and performance.
• Processed oil is explored as a potential modifier for asphalt binders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effectiveness of processed oil in modifying PG 64-22 and PG 76-22 asphalt binders.
• To assess the impact of processed oil on the physical and rheological properties of asphalt binders.
• To compare the performance of modified binders with control binders.

Main Methods:

• Asphalt binders (PG 64-22, PG 76-22) were blended with processed oil at 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% by weight.
• Binders underwent short-term (RTFO) and long-term (PAV) aging.
• Superpave binder tests including Rotational Viscometer (RV), Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR), and Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR) were performed.

Main Results:

• Processed oil significantly decreased binder viscosity with increasing content.
• Rutting resistance (G*/sin δ) decreased with processed oil addition in both binders.
• Fatigue cracking resistance (G*sin δ) improved, and thermal cracking properties (stiffness, m-value) were enhanced.

Conclusions:

• Processed oil effectively modifies PG 64-22 and PG 76-22 binders.
• While reducing viscosity and rutting resistance, it enhances fatigue and low-temperature cracking performance.
• The findings suggest potential for processed oil in asphalt modification for improved pavement resilience.