MSCR (Multiple Stress Creep Recovery) Testing of Asphalt Binder According to AASHTO T350

The concept of creep and recovery tests to measure the temperature dependent properties of asphalt binder exists since the late 1990s and was originally used to determine the rutting performance of modified asphalt binder. The Multiple Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR) test can be performed to measure the percent recovery and non-recoverable creep compliance of asphalt binders with the SmartPave dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) by Anton Paar (Austria). This test procedure, as described in the AASHTO T350 standard, consists of a one-second constant stress interval followed by a nine-second zero-stress recovery period. The loading and recovery interval is repeated 30 times. The first 10 cycles are performed at 0.1 kPa stress level to condition the sample, followed by 10 more cycles at 0.1 kPa stress level and 10 cycles at 3.2 kPa stress level. The whole test takes only six minutes until it is completed.

The versatile and modular SmartPave dynamic shear rheometer is equipped with a unique Peltier heating system (with no water flow around the sample). Furthermore, the special software guides the user through the pre-defined MSCR test procedure, according to the AASHTO T350 standard, for maximum comfort and ease of use. With its broad torque range and true stress and strain capabilities, SmartPave handles all tests of modern rheology and meets all future demands such as any changes in asphalt test specifications, which makes it a long-term investment.