Asphalt rubber: Performance tests and pavement design issues

Asphalt rubber mixtures continue to receive great attention from many transportation agencies world-wide because of their ability to improve pavement performance compared to conventional designs. A number of studies reported on the unique properties and characteristics of asphalt rubber mixtures in terms of improved permanent deformation and fatigue cracking. Several states in the US and countries around the world have used, or are in the process of using asphalt rubber mixtures in new pavement designs and rehabilitation programs. This paper summarizes findings from several research studies conducted at Arizona State University in the areas of binder and mixture performance. The unique engineering properties of asphalt rubber mixtures are discussed along with recommendation on how to use them in current pavement design procedures.