Analysis of water and thermal sensitivity of open graded asphalt rubber mixtures

This research investigates the water and thermal sensitivity of two open graded mixtures prepared with asphalt rubber binder, one mixture containing lightweight aggregates (expanded clay) replacing a part of coarse fraction. Fatigue tests using the CoAxial Shear Test (CAST) apparatus were performed in both dry and wet conditions with and without temperature cycles. Results showed that fatigue resistance of the studied materials was only little affected by water and temperature cycles and superior to traditional open graded mixtures produced with SBS modified bitumen only. The results were also validated and modelled by means of an elasticity-based damage model.