Rheological Modification for Asphaltic Materials Using a Mixture (Poly carbonate: Poly Methyl Methacrylate) and Microwave Radiation

Abstract

Obtaining asphalt that suits the nature of the countries it is used in, is of great importance. Asphalt constitutes an important component in the paving of roads, mastic and flattening substance. This study was included the modification of the asphaltic material by the use of a mixture of polycarbonate and polymethyl methacrylate after crushed to obtain low molecular weight. The study included two paths: In the first asphaltic materials was treated with different percentages of a mixture in the presence of anhydrous aluminium chloride (0.06%of weight) as a catalyst for this reaction. The mixture was heated at 150° for 30 minutes. In the second path, the process of mixing was performed with the existence of a 360 watt microwave radiation for 15 minutes. The process of mixing was repeated in the presence of sulphur (1% of weight) instead of anhydrous aluminium chloride and under the same conditions. Properties of the original and modified asphalts were determined, and this included the measurement of ductility, penetration, softening point, penetration index and calculating the percentage of separated asphaltenes. Additionally, Marshal test, chemical Immersion test and aging were measured for some of the samples. Good samples that can suit Iraq's climate were obtained from this study.