Thermal oxidative aging characterization of SBS modified asphalt

Both macro and micro-methods were introduced to study the physical and chemical properties of thermal oxidative aging of SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) modified asphalt. The physical properties of SBS modified asphalt before and after aging were analyzed by normal tests. The structure and quality variation of SBS modified asphalt during the aging process was analyzed by FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectrum). FTIR result shows that the degeneration of SBS modified asphalt is mainly caused by oxidative reaction and rupture of C=C double bond. The molecular weight variations of asphalt function groups and SBS polymer were studied by GPC (Gel Permeation Chromatography). GPC result shows that small molecules transform into larger one in asphalt and SBS polymer molecule degrade during the aging process. SBS polymer may lose its modifying function after long time aging.