Evaluation of SBS modified stone mastic asphalt pavement performance

The purpose of this study is to research SBS polymer modified stone mastic asphalt (SMA) pavement performance. With this scope Marshall test (ASTM D1559) test was verified and optimal bitumen contents were calculated with experimental stages. At the optimal bitumen content control and SBS SMA mixtures were evaluated with Marshall Quotient (MQ) approach, repeated creep test (RCT), indirect tensile strength test (ITST), Laboratoire Central des Ponts et Chaussees (LCPC) Wheel tracking tests. According to the MQ results SBS modified samples gives higher values than conventional control mixtures. Higher MQ can be thought as more resistance to the plastic deformation. Controversial results can be obtained with MQ approach for some types of asphalt mixture gradations. Because of structural integrity and stone on stone contact gradation for SMA MQ approach gives more harmonious results. Efficiency of SBS polymer was confirmed with MQ method. Modified samples gave higher indirect tensile strength than control ones. RCT and LCPC wheel tracking test results shows that SBS modified mixtures have lower rutting values than the conventional mixtures.

► Performance of SBS modified SMA mixtures was evaluated with different test methods.
► LCPC wheel tracking test, repeated creep test, indirect tensile strength test, and Marshall Quotient approach were used.
► Higher performances were obtained from the modified mixtures than the control ones.
► For SMA mixtures, efficiency of SBS polymer was confirmed with MQ approach.