Rheological and physical properties of asphalt mixed with warm compaction modifier

• Warm compaction modifier has significant effect on the asphalt physical properties.
• Rheological behavior of asphalt can be improved by warm compaction modifier.
• MSCR test can quantify the effect of the warm compaction modifier on asphalt binder.
• The optimum content of warm compaction modifier is recommended as 0.3% by weight.

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of the warm compaction modifier on the physical and rheological properties of High-viscosity High-elasticity modified asphalt and SBS modified asphalt. Three types of asphalt binder with different concentrations (at 0.3%, 0.5%, 0.8% by weight) of the warm compaction modifier were studied respectively. The influence of the warm compaction modifier on the physical and rheological properties was evaluated by penetration, softening point, and ductility and Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) test. It was evident that the addition of the warm compaction modifier had a significant effect on the stiffness and elasticity behavior of the asphalt both at high and intermediate temperatures. It is indicated by DSR analysis that the warm compaction modifier could increase stiffness and fatigue behavior compared with base modified asphalt. Based on the physical and rheological tests, the concentration of warm compaction modifier was recommended to be at 0.3% by the weight of base modified asphalt.