The Investigation of the Impact of Lucobit Polymer on Bitumen Performance

Abstract

With the increase of traffic and consequently, the loads applied on the roads, the need for a more durable pavement is of special significance. Therefore, the researchers have been seeking for ways to improve the functional properties of bitumen and asphalt mixtures. For this reason, different materials have been used to modify these properties. Polymers are divided into three general groups including elastomers, plastomers and elasto-plastomers. Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) is one of the most applicable polymers. In this study the polymer "Lucobit" that is a polyolefin, has been used to modify the bitumen properties. Using of this polymer has improved both the classic (softening point, penetration, and so on) and performance (Fatigue parameter, Storage Modulus, Damping Factor) properties of bitumen in comparison to the standard bitumen. In addition, the influence of this polymer on the asphalt mixture has been investigated. The results show that the use of this polymer improves Marshall Stability, indirect tension, shear modulus, and the rutting in the wheel track of asphalt mixtures