Influence of Source and Ageing on the Rheological Properties and Fatigue and Rutting Resistance of Bitumen Using a DSR

Bitumen of penetration grade 50/70 is the most commonly used binder in asphalt pavements of Europe. This research attempts to differentiate between three bitumen of penetration grade 50/70 that have been acquired from three sources. The rheological properties, fatigue and rutting resistance were analyzed and compared using the results of Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) tests. The rheological test data acquired were modelled and further approximated using the 2S2P1D model. Additionally, to understand the changes in performance due to ageing, all the DSR tests were repeated for Rolling Thin Film Oven Test (RTFOT) aged and Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) aged bitumen. Finally, the tests results were summarized in a performance diagram to aid in overall ranking of the bitumen taking into consideration relevant parameters.