Comparison of the rutting potential of paving mixes produced from different asphalt binders with the same superpave high-temperature performance

Asphalt binders with the same high-temperature performance grade (PG 64-xx), but prepared by different methods to cover the spectrum of conventional, oxidized, and polymer and crumb rubber modified binders, were selected for the testing of the rutting potential of paving mixes with these asphalt binders. The rutting potential of the paving mixes was studied using the wheel-tracking test. Moving loads were applied through wheels with solid rubber tires, which traveled with a reciprocating motion on two gyratory compacted cylindrical specimens that were paired together. Gyratory compaction was employed to compact the test mixes to achieve uniform density and air void distribution within individual specimens. The asphalt mixes were compacted using the same aggregate gradation, according to the Superpave mix design. The machine allowed rut tests to be conducted at different temperatures. The results of a test program are reported to demonstrate the effects of asphalt binders and the temperature on rut develop...