Project Abstract:
The main research plan is to study new materials that will make some positive changes in the durability and longevity of the life of transportation infrastructure, e.g., new asphalt mixtures with Crumb Rubber Modifier (CRM). CRM is recycled rubber produced from waste scrap tires, and when it is incorporated into paving asphalt mixtures, CRM provides many positive improvements in deformation resistance, fatigue resistance and noise reduction.
Encouraged by successful laboratory study results, CRM became one of the popular materials to modify the properties of conventional asphalt paving materials for pavement longevity, e.g., No-agitation Tire Rubber Modified Bitumen (TR-MB). Since there are 1 billion tires stockpiled and 300 million annual increments of tires generated per year in the United States, CRM also could be the potential solution for the solid waste problem.
TR-MB is quite a new technology leading to bituminous binders, such as polymer-modified bitumen, in terms of both rheology and required efforts during paving operations. Their manufacturing is strongly dependent on the selected processing variables as well as on the selected materials. This research will include studying the influence of processing conditions on the modification process, storage stability and overall properties of the final bitumen-tire rubber blends.
The objectives of this project are to:
- Investigate the benefits of the CRM for pavement longevity,
- Study the effects of increasing CRM contents on permanent deformation, fatigue cracking, skid resistance and roughness,
- Decrease the demand of pure bitumen and to use eco-friendly materials,
- Develop appropriate mix designs for asphalt mixtures with CRM as modifier, which provides maximum positive impacts on reducing rutting and cracking, and
- Promote the maximum and optimal use of CRM in the asphalt pavement.
Principal Investigator:
Dr. K.Wayne Lee
Institution:
University of Rhode Island
Co-investigator:
Dr. George Veyera
Project Type:
Base-Funded Research
Start Date:
7/1/2018
Project Cost:
$161,474
Project Status:
Terminated
End Date:
6/30/2021
Agency ID:
69A3551847101
Sponsors:
University Transportation Centers Program, Department of Transportation
University of Rhode Island
Implementation of Research Outcomes:
This project is in its initial research phase. Implementation of Research outcomes will be reported upon completion of initial research.
Impacts and Benefits of Implementation:
This project is in its initial research phase. Impacts and benefits of the research will be reported after the implementation phase.
Related Links:
Rhode Island Transportation Research Center
Downloadable Documents
Printable Project Information Sheet
April 2019 Semi-Annual Progress Report
September 2019 Semi-Annual Progress Report
December 2019 Quarterly Progress Report