High-temperature performance of gilsonite-modified asphalt binder and asphalt concrete

ABSTRACTThis article investigates the effect of addition of gilsonite (natural bitumen) to asphalt binder on its rheological behavior at high temperatures through construction of complex modulus (G*) master curve using dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) test. This impact is further investigated by evaluation of performance of asphalt concrete modified with gilsonite at elevated temperatures using repeated dynamic creep test. The results showed that introduction of gilsonite to asphalt binder increases its stiffness and elasticity. Also, the results indicated that the modification of asphalt concrete with gilsonite improved rutting resistance significantly.