This research investigates the behavior of Stone Matrix Asphalt mixtures (SMA) modified with styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) polymer at four percentages (1, 2, 3 and 4%) by weight of asphalt cement. The moisture susceptibility and rutting were taken into consideration in this study. To achieve the objective of this research the superpave system is conducted to design the asphalt mixtures. The physical properties of aggregate, bitumen and other mix materials were assessed and evaluated with the laboratory tests. The mixtures were prepared using penetration Graded (40-50) bitumen and a chemical named Polypropylene Fibers was used as a stabilizing additive. Fibers have been used in SMA mixtures for two main reasons: To increase the toughness and fracture resistance of hot mix asphalt (HMA) and to act as a stabilizer to prevent drain down of the asphalt binder. The laboratory tests include indirect tensile strength test, Marshall stability and retained Marshall Stability test (RMS). For rutting test the Roller wheel compactor is used for preparing the asphaltic samples and Wheel tracking device is used to evaluate the rutting of asphaltic slabs. The results showed that the SBS polymer asphalt mixture gave better moisture sensitivity and better fracture resistance according to the study.It is noted that indirect tensile strength ratio (TSR) increases by 93.1 % and the rut depth decreases by 32.5 % when adding 3% SBS polymer to SMA.
Characterization of Aggregate Resistance to Degradation in Stone Matrix Asphalt Mixtures
