01126809

Component

This paper explains the nature of a bitumen stabilized material and why these materials are being used to an ever increasing extent in the construction and rehabilitation of flexible pavements, worldwide. The characteristics of a bitumen stabilized material are explained together with their performance capabilities and comparisons made with other commonly used pavement materials. As with most new technologies, however, research has tended to lag behind usage and bitumen stabilization is no different. Initially regarded as a "poor man's" asphalt, field performance proved different and only recently have the non-continuous binding properties of these materials been appreciated. Results emanating from applied research efforts (primarily in South Africa, Holland and the USA) are now providing an understanding of the behavior of these materials (particularly the non-continuously bonding) and their potential. The benefits of using bitumen stabilized materials in pavement structures are discussed. These include: ƒ{ their application to a wide range of materials, especially material recycled from existing pavements; ƒ{ immediate strength gain that allows the material to withstand early trafficking; ƒ{ energy savings; and ƒ{ durability aspects. These enhanced durability aspects have only recently been appreciated from long term pavement performance (LTPP) exercises. By selectively dispersing amongst the finer fraction only, the bitumen captures and immobilizes those particles that are susceptible to moisture. Additional benefits accrue from the hydrophobic nature of bitumen that prevents water from entering a layer of well-compacted material. The acceptance of this technology by various countries has been largely dictated by culture and economic health. It has now been used successfully on all continents (except Antarctica) and is gaining popularity, primarily due to the substantial savings in cost and energy emissions coupled with the promise of being a candidate for "Perpetual Pavement Material" classification when good quality materials are stabilized.

01120148

09-3733

English

2009

Transportation Research Board 88th Annual Meeting

DVD

Figures; Photos; References (12) ; Tables (6)

Bitumen; Durability; Flexible pavements; Pavement performance; Perpetual pavements; Stabilized materials

Long-Term Pavement Performance Program

Moisture susceptibility

Environment; Highways; Materials; Pavements; I31: Bituminous Binders and Materials

Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting 2009 Paper #09-3733

TRIS, TRB

Jan 30 2009 8:09PM