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 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
