Reformulation of Asphalt Cements for Paving

Abstract

This paper summarizes research on the behavior of reformulated asphalt cements (AC) produced by different blending combinations of propane precipitated asphalt (PPA) and other petroleum-based components—soft asphalt residues and furfural heavy oils. The asphalt cements were tested fresh and under variable aging conditions. The fresh reformulated AC blends were also used to compose local typical bituminous paving mixtures with two types of aggregate—dolomite and basalt. The mixtures were tested to inspect conformation under the local standard Marshall criteria, and also for long-term moisture damage resistance. The major conclusion of this research is that high-quality and durable ACs can be produced by reformulation through blending of specific petroleum components involving PPA. These reformulated ACs cements were found to comply with all standard specifications and in many cases to exhibit superior aging resistance as compared to conventional straight-run ACs. Bituminous mixtures composed of reformulated ACs also fully complied with local specifications. When calcareous aggregates were involved, these mixtures also exhibited high durability, as expressed by their resistance to moisture damage.