Performance evaluation of binders and bituminous concrete mixes modified with anti-stripping agents and polypropylene fibre

In this research, the CRMB-55 binder was utilised to improve the performance of asphalt concrete pavements while also addressing environmental concerns. Further, the effect of the addition of two modifiers, namely liquid anti-stripping agents (Fixtone-360, Wetbond-S and Wetbond-SP) and 6 mm length polypropylene fibre on bitumen binder and bituminous concrete mixes of grading II (BC, G-II), was evaluated. For this purpose, a dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) was used to identify the rheological behaviour of asphalt binders. For assessing the mechanical properties of asphalt concrete mixes, tests such as Marshall tests, indirect tensile strength and durability tests were performed. The findings conferred that the performance of the binder against rutting was improved with the addition of both modifiers. Further, both the modifiers, alone and in combination, significantly improved the mechanical performance of bitumen mixes. However, the blend of Wetbond-S anti-stripping agent (0.04%) and polypropylene fibre (0.6%) yielded the best rheological and mechanical performance.