Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) effect on asphalt performance

Abstract

The asphalt industry is increasingly developing with greater focus on sustainability. This study focuses on the benefits of a binder modification of stone mastic asphalt (SMA) by adding a rubber—ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM)—into a class 320 bitumen. This study observes the advantages that occur for the rutting and fatigue performance of the samples. The binder modification was made by incorporating 0, 2, 4 and 6% binder weight into each sample. The tests performed on the samples were the wheel-tracking test and the four-point beam bending test. The results revealed varied outcomes, with the four-point beam bending test showing the 6% sample having the highest initial stiffness and modulus of elasticity but the lowest cycle to failure. Therefore, the best performer was determined as the 4% sample, which performed consistently throughout, having the highest cumulative dissipated energy and second-highest initial flexural stiffness, modulus of elasticity and cycle to failure results. There was a clear indication of the best performer for the wheel-tracking test, with the 4% sample having the lowest rut depth, although there were signs of further improvement to be achieved within the 4–6% range. In addition, drain-off tests were conducted on the mixtures, and the addition of EPDM significantly reduced the SMA drain-off values. Overall, the best improvements through binder modification for an SMA mix with EPDM concerning fatigue and rutting resistance came from a 4% incorporation.