Laboratory investigation of modified bitumen for interlayer in rigid–flexible composite pavement

Abstract

Adhesion of composite pavement plays a significant role in the durability and maintenance of this type of pavement. The present research aims to assess the bonding and fatigue performance of rigid–flexible composite pavements through laboratory testing at different tack coat application rates. Three types of modified bitumen, crumb rubber-modified bitumen containing hydrated lime (CR/HL), crumb rubber-modified bitumen containing natural zeolite (CR/NZ), and crumb rubber-modified bitumen (CRMB), were selected as the tack coat. Shear fatigue and direct shear tests were utilized to assess the bonding properties of tack coats. The study also examines the behavior of modified bitumen by examining its viscosity, rheological properties, and performance grade. The results show that CR/NZ exhibits better performance in rheological behavior and at various temperatures compared to CR/HL and CRMB. Also, depending on the type of tack coat, shear strength tests show a range of 0.6–0.9 l m−2 as the optimal tack coat dosage. Finally, based on the optimal tack coat, shear strength ratings for various bitumen types may be classified as CRMB < CR/HL < CR/NZ.