Performance evaluation of linear and nonlinear nanocomposite modified asphalts

Polymeric nanocomposites have been widely acknowledged recently. In this study, the effects of nanoclay on two grades of styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS) modified asphalts, linear and branch, have been investigated. The physical, mechanical and rheological properties of original binder, polymer modified asphalts and nanocomposite modified asphalts have been studied and compared. The results have shown that nanoclay can improve the physical properties, rheological behaviors and the storage stability of the polymeric asphalts. Linear SBS-nanocomposite modified asphalt may form an exfoliated structure, whereas the Branch SBS-nanocomposite modified asphalt may form an intercalated structure, based on the X-ray diffraction (XRD) results.