Effects of ethylene vinyl acetate and nanoclay additions on high-temperature performance of asphalt binders

This study investigates the effects of adding ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer and nanoclay (NC) on the high-temperature performance of asphalt binders. Three different types of modified binders were prepared using melt blending, NC-, EVA-, and polymer-modified nanoclay at concentrations of 1, 3, 5, and 7 wt%. Their physical and theological properties were evaluated by conventional tests (penetration and softening point), viscosity measurements, and a dynamic shear rheometer. The results show that EVA and NC significantly improve the binder properties. Specifically, the rutting parameter increased after binder modification indicating its superior performance at high temperatures. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.