Study Plan

All six modified binders were evaluated in the laboratory for consistency measurements over a range of temperatures that included penetration, viscosity and softening point. The predicted consistencies were then used to determine the appropriate compaction and mixing temperatures, based on equiviscous criteria, to be used in the preparation of mixture specimens for both the Marshall and SUPERPAVE Gyratory Level I mix design procedures.

Upon completion of the mix designs, typical "design" binder contents were developed for each of the six mixtures. Susceptibility of mixtures for moisture dainage was investigated, at these "design" binder contents, to assess the resistance of the mixture to moisture damage.

A comprehensive series of dynamic mechanical analysis tests were then undertaken on each of the six mixtures investigated. These tests included the dynamic (complex) modulus, static creep and repeated load permanent deformation behavior. All dynamic material , characterization tests were conducted using an environmental chamber with a MTS servohydraulic automated control system. The University of Maryland system is also equipped with a computerized data acquisition and analysis capability for each test type used in this study. [Figure omitted*] is a schematic summary of the laboratory research plan used for each mix.

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