Characteristics of Polymers and Polymer-Modified Binders

Abstract

The properties of a number of polymers commonly proposed for polymer-modified bitumens (PMBs) were studied to suggest a way to select the polymer suitable for the required application; the prediction of the performance in the final application would allow bypass of the tests on PMBs and asphalt mixtures. Rheological and mechanical tests were performed on both raw materials and PMBs containing 5 percent polymer. Tensile dynamic mechanical test analyzer hardness, tensile properties, and tension set tests were conducted on polymers; the tendency of the polymers to absorb aromatic oil was also determined to simulate their swelling in the PMBs. Rheometer dynamic tests, R&B, penetration, and elastic recovery were carried out on PMBs. Rheometer dynamic parameters, R&B, penetration, and elastic recovery were measured on the bitumen. The experimental data confirm that selected tests on polymers can give good information about the polymer contribution to PMBs' performances.