Thermo-rheological properties and storage stability of SEBS/kaolinite clay compound modified asphalts

Styrene–ethylene–butadiene–styrene block copolymer (SEBS) modified asphalts with improved high-temperature storage stability are prepared by incorporating kaolinite clay (KC) into the SEBS compounds. The effect of KC on the high-temperature storage properties, dynamic rheological and mechanical properties and morphologies of the modified asphalts are studied. It is found that the SEBS/KC ratio in the compound has a great effect on the high-temperature storage behavior. The modified asphalts are stable when the ratio of SEBS/KC is around 2. However, KC decreases the dynamic rheological and mechanical properties of the modified asphalts to some extent. The high-temperature storage property can be increased by improving the compatibility and decreasing the density difference between SEBS and asphalt.