Effects of ethylene vinyl acetate and nanoclay additions on high-temperature performance of asphalt binders

This study investigates the effects of adding ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer and nanoclay (NC) on the high-temperature performance of asphalt binders. Three different types of modified binders were prepared using melt blending, NC-, EVA-, and polymer-modified nanoclay at concentrations of 1, 3, 5, and 7 wt%. Their physical and rheological properties were evaluated by conventional tests (penetration and softening point), viscosity measurements, and a dynamic shear rheometer. The results show that EVA and NC significantly improve the binder properties. Specifically, the rutting parameter increased after binder modification indicating its superior performance at high temperatures.