Rheological Testing of GTR Modified Asphalt Binder

A concept of growing popularity in many parts of the world is the addition of recycled ground tire rubber (GTR) to asphalt binder. Due to the particle size of the used GTR a variety of problems can occur during a measurement with a dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) equipped with plate-plate geometries, e.g. no laminar flow conditions, sagging effects and temperature gradients.

Anton Paar’s (Austria) SmartPave DSR is equipped with a completely new and unique air-cooled Peltier heating system with a specially designed concentric cylinder geometry. Sagging effects and temperature gradients are completely eliminated and the heating and cooling rates are unbelievably fast. The user-friendly rheometer software has been designed specifically for the needs of the asphalt industry. To ensure that the used measuring temperature is correct, SmartPave and its software also feature an automatic temperature calibration.

With SmartPave, the rheological analysis (flow behavior, elasticity, loading and temperature dependence) of ground tire modified asphalt binder is comfortable and easy, taking rheological tests on modified bitumen to previously unattained levels of convenience and reliability.

Due to the versatility and modularity of SmartPave, all tests used in modern rheology today can be performed. The system’s broad torque range and true stress and strain capabilities allow for adjustment of the measurements to special needs. That’s why SmartPave is ready to handle all future demands like changing asphalt test specifications, which makes this rheometer a safe long-term investment.