Investigation Of Micronized Rubber Powder as an Alternative to Polymer Modifiers in Asphalt Pavement
Date of Award
9-22-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Engineering, MSE
First Advisor
Zahid Hossain
Committee Members
Ashraf Elsayed; Mohammad Abrar Alam; Robert Fleming
Abstract
Researchers have increasingly focused on polymer additives to enhance asphalt pavement performance. Crumb rubber (CR), derived from waste vehicle tires, has emerged as a potential modifier. This study investigates Micronized Rubber Powder (MRP), smaller than 75 μm, as an alternative to polymer modifiers. A PG 64-22 binder was modified with 5%, 10%, and 15% MRP (by weight), and the properties were compared with those of an SBS-modified PG 70-22 binder. Physical, mechanical, and chemical properties were assessed. The results indicated that MRP significantly increased viscosity and required higher processing temperatures. MRP-modified binders demonstrated improved rutting resistance, creep recovery, high-temperature performance, and low-temperature cracking resistance. Chemical analysis confirmed no new compound formation, indicating physical interaction. Limited mixture test results revealed better rutting but slightly lower cracking resistance for MRP mixes. Overall, a 15% concentration of MRP shows promise as a viable binder modifier, but it warrants further study for field applications.
Rights Management
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Islam, Md Torikul, "Investigation Of Micronized Rubber Powder as an Alternative to Polymer Modifiers in Asphalt Pavement" (2025). Student Theses and Dissertations. 1100.
https://arch.astate.edu/all-etd/1100
