Cost Estimate of B vs. C Grade Asphalt Binders
Polymer-modified binders (PMB) have been shown over the decades to improve the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures compared to unmodified binders. Considering the higher initial cost of PMB, selecting the best alternative is very important, especially for local agencies given their limited budgets. A challenge in the materials selection process for low-volume roads is the limited information available, which could allow engineers to determine whether using PMB is cost-effective. In this research, the authors investigate the use of PG 58H-34 PMB binders (grade C) and PG58S-28 unmodified binders (grade B) for low-volume roads in Minnesota. Historical pavement performance data are analyzed to compare the field performance of modified and unmodified mixtures. Laboratory experiments are performed to compare the low-temperature cracking properties of polymer-modified and unmodified binders and mixtures commonly used in Minnesota. Based on the experimental results, a life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA) is performed comparing the use of polymer-modified and unmodified binders for low-volume roads in Minnesota. The results show that using PMBs for new construction is expected to extend the pavement service life by 6 years, and that using PMB is more cost-effective than using unmodified binders for low-traffic roads.
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- Summary URL:
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Supplemental Notes:
- Cover date: June 2023.
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Corporate Authors:
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
Department of Civil, Environmental and Geo-Engineering
500 Pillsbury Drive SE
Minneapolis, MN United States 55455Minnesota Department of Transportation
Office of Research & Innovation
395 John Ireland Boulevard, MS 330
St. Paul, MN United States 55155-1899 -
Authors:
- Yan, Tianhao
- Marasteanu, Mihai
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0000-0001-8331-4504
- Turos, Mugurel
- Barman, Manik
- Manikavasagan, Vishruthi
- Chakraborty, Manik
- Publication Date: 2023-5
Language
- English
Media Info
- Media Type: Digital/other
- Edition: Final Report
- Features: Figures; References; Tables;
- Pagination: 71p
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Alternatives analysis; Bituminous binders; Cost effectiveness; Life cycle analysis; Low volume roads; Pavement performance; Polymers
- Geographic Terms: Minnesota
- Subject Areas: Economics; Highways; Materials; Pavements; Planning and Forecasting;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 01885903
- Record Type: Publication
- Report/Paper Numbers: MN 2023-19, CTS #2022014
- Contract Numbers: (c) 1036342 (wo) 20
- Files: NTL, TRIS, ATRI, STATEDOT
- Created Date: Jun 23 2023 12:21PM