Modified Asphalts

MARC researchers at UW have compiled a significant body of research related to modified asphalts.
A small sample of their seminal research papers on this paper are collected here.

• Characterization of Modified Asphalt Binders in Superpave Mix Design.
  UW's Asphalt Group led one of the most comprehensive studies on modified asphalts since Superpave. The surveys from this NCHRP study and its proposed modified asphalt testing concepts continue to serve as the basis for next generation testing methods for modified asphalts.

• Field Validation of Wisconsin Modified Binder Selection Guidelines.
  Researchers performed field tests to validate binder grade selection guidelines for Wisconsin pavements and confirm the impact of various modifiers on asphalt performance. The field results included valuable data in the areas of mixing and compaction, fatigue, low-temperature cracking and rutting. New data collected as the sites age will help improve design practices.

• Using the Gyratory Compactor to Measure the Mechanical Stability of Asphalt Mixes.
  This study evaluated the effectiveness of using a simple shear plate accessory to the gyratory compactor to measure the mechanical stability of asphalt mixes in the laboratory. Developing and applying reliable laboratory tests for novel kinds of asphalt mixes is critical for MARC research.

• Test Method to Determine Aggregate/Asphalt Adhesion Properties and Potential Moisture Damage.
  This research will help improve current practice by investigating different test methods to quantify moisture damage. Understanding asphalt failure mechanics will serve the needs of transportation agencies and the modified asphalt industry alike.