Due to the increase in asphalt modifiers available in the market, how do I know what I need and if I am getting what I asked for? How do different additives perform? What do I need to know about testing them?
Most commonly, when modifiers are discussed in the asphalt industry, they are referring to asphalt binder modifiers. These modifiers can be a range of polymers, chemical additives, organic materials, softening agents, asphalt rejuvenators, etc. Each category contains an endless line of products.
Modifiers are not isolated to the asphalt binder – mixtures are being modified as well. An ideal asphalt mixture modifier will focus on improved resistance to rutting and cracking. Some of these modifiers fall in the categories of fibers, treated plastics, fillers and recycled materials.
Learn about these different types of modifiers, some of the common tests to evaluate them and the benefits they bring during production and paving. Also hear about a few projects that attribute to their successes to mixtures containing modifiers.
