Study on Thixotropy of Mastic Asphalt Binder and Asphalt Mastic

Abstract

In order to analyze the thixotropy of mastic asphalt concrete during the mixing process, the factors affecting the thixotropy of mastic asphalt binder and asphalt mastic are studied, and the measures to shorten the mixing time of mastic asphalt mixture are given. The dynamic viscosity of mastic asphalt binder and asphalt mastic with time and shear rate is obtained via the step frequency method, and the thixotropic constitutive models of mastic asphalt binder and asphalt mastic are constructed by structural dynamics model, exponential equation, and extended exponential equation respectvely. The improved time thixotropy index is used to analyze the effects of asphalt type, asphalt–aggregate ratio, filler type, heating temperature, and shear rate, and the laws of various factors affecting the thixotropy of mastic asphalt binder and asphalt mastic are obtained. The research shows that the extended exponential model can better characterize the thixotropy of mastic asphalt binder and asphalt mastic under different shear rates. When the amount of lake asphalt or cement is increased, the viscosity of the system and the mixing time to reach a steady viscosity increases; that is, the mixing time needs to be increased. Increasing shear temperature does not change the time parameter to reach steady viscosity; that is, it cannot shorten mixing time. When the shear rate is increased, the time for the system to reach the steady viscosity will be shortened; that is, the time for mixing the mixture can be shortened.

Optimizing Rural Pavements with SBS-Modified Asphalt Binders and Petroleum Resin

“…Rural pavements face unique challenges like adverse weather [5] and heavy agricultural machinery traffic, leading to accelerated deterioration and impacting safety and transportation efficiency [6]. Recognizing the economic importance of rural areas, systematic upgrades are essential to address degradation and yield profound economic benefits [7], fostering development and enhancing the quality of life for these communities [8]. Upgrading rural pavements is not just a technical necessity but a pivotal step towards sustainable development, ensuring the resilience and vitality of these transportation networks [9].…”