Effect of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) on stone mastic asphalt (SMA) behaviour

Stone Mastic asphalt (SMA) has been of interest in research in pavement engineering. Different climates and load conditions sometimes dictate to use special products such as SMA. Due to traffic load and new developments, sometimes it is vital to develop new mixes with higher capabilities to withstand the loads. This study investigates the effect of Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA) on SMA fatigue and rutting behaviour. By application of wet techniques, EVA was blended with C320 binder and SMA mixes were prepared. EVA dosage was varied from 2% to 6%. A four-point flexural beam test, wheel rutting test, Schellenberg test, flow number test and dynamic modulus test were conducted on the mixes. The outcomes saw clear improvements in rutting resistance and the cycle to failure in four point bending test, was improved with increases in the percentage of EVA. The flow number also increased by increasing the EVA concentration. The drainage of bitumen was decreased by increasing the EVA concentration. Finally, the master curve relevant to each EVA concentration was plotted and compared. Phase angle of mixes also decreased by increasing the EVA percentage. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.