Effects of polymer modified nanoclay on the performance of asphalt mixture

Recently, polymer-modified nanomaterial has received extensive attention as a key solution for improving the performance of asphalt binders. This study investigates the effect of polymer modified nanoclay (PMN) that made of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer and nanoclay mixtures on the high-temperature performance of the asphalt binder and mixture. Moreover, the modified binder samples are prepared with PMN by using melt processing technique at concentrations of 1 %, 3 %, 5 % and 7 % with the weight of asphalt. Furthermore, the effect of the modifier on the binder properties is assessed using conventional tests like penetration and softening point, viscosity measurements, multiple stress creep recovery, and dynamic shear rheometry. Additionally, wheel tracking and moisture sensitivity tests are applied to investigate the hightemperature performance of the hot mix asphalt (HMA) mixture. The experimental results show that the rheological and physical properties are improved when PMN is used. The addition of PMN to HMA mixtures significantly improves the resistant to the rutting and moisture induced damages. Therefore, this study provides substantial technical support for improving the high-temperature performance of asphalt pavement in hot regions to reduce rutting concerns.