Description
This paper presents some findings from the recently completed research project on “Rubberised Asphalt Testing to UK Standards”, funded by WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme). The use of rubberised bitumen in two families of asphalt mixture historically used in the UK, specifically Porous Asphalt (PA) surface course and Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) binder course, has been studied. In summary, the comprehensive laboratory study described in this report has shown the overall performance of rubberised asphalt (RA) mixtures to be at least similar to that of premium asphalt binder course (e.g. SMA) and significantly better than that of a conventional porous asphalt surface course, due to improved tensile strength, superior resistance to deformation, low temperature cracking and aggregate loss (fretting). Good quality RA mixtures can therefore be regarded as strong contenders for heavy duty long life surface course applications.
