Compaction temperatures of Sasobit produced warm mix asphalt mixtures modified with SBS

• 3% Sasobit is the optimum WMA additive content out of various contents.
• Compaction temperature is determined by simulating the mixing plant method.
• Lowering the aggregates heating temperature does not impact the moisture release.
• Mixing, laydown, and compaction temperatures are recommended for test sections.

In this study, comprehensive tests were carried out to assess the properties of asphalt binder and corresponding mixtures. The Marshall compaction tests of warm-mix and hot-mix styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modified mixtures at various temperatures were performed. During plant simulated Marshall compaction tests, parameters including the moisture loss of aggregates were considered. Then, construction temperatures at various stages were recommended. Finally, the test sections in tunnels were paved and evaluated. The results show that 3% Sasobit is the optimum additive content. It is also determined that there is a 15 °C difference in compaction temperature between the traditional method and mixing plant method. Decreasing the heating temperature of aggregates does not impact the release of moisture. The field test sections show that the recommended compaction temperatures and other production temperatures for WMA are acceptable.