Rheological evaluation and storage stability of asphalt modified with novel high elastic modifiers

This study investigates the performance enhancement of styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modified asphalt binders through the incorporation of high-elastic modifiers (HEMs). Three HEMs JC-HEM, GL-HEM, and JT-HEM were evaluated using a comprehensive suite of tests, including rheological assessments, viscosity measurements, chemical interaction analysis, and microscopic characterization. The results demonstrate significant improvements in the viscoelastic properties of SBS binders across a wide range of temperatures and loading conditions. Specifically, JT-HEM-modified binders exhibited a 25% reduction in stiffness and a 40% increase in recovery rates, while maintaining excellent workability due to reduced viscosity. GL-HEM showed a 20% reduction in stiffness and a 35% improvement in recovery rates, with enhanced high-temperature deformation resistance. JC-HEM contributed to a 15% reduction in stiffness and a 30% increase in recovery, offering improved elasticity and compatibility. Fluorescence microscopy and softening point difference tests further confirmed enhanced storage stability and phase homogeneity, particularly for SBS-JT binders. These findings observed that carefully selected HEMs not only mitigate the compatibility issues commonly associated with SBS but also optimize the long-term performance of asphalt binders. This research supports the integration of advanced polymer systems in pavement design to extend service life and reduce maintenance needs under demanding field conditions.