Description

As the use of asphalt rubber binders in hot mix asphalt (HMA) and chip seals gains wider acceptance, it becomes imperative that the quality control testing programs become formalized and uniform throughout the industry. Even one failure attributed to the asphalt rubber binder can set the industry back substantially.

Asphalt rubber (AR) binder is designed to meet a given agency specification and the results of the design are generally furnished to the agency. AR is presently controlled in the field using viscosity tests, unlike other binders which are certified by the supplier.

This report summarizes the current practices used for quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) of asphalt rubber binders and mixes. Suggestions for improvements to the existing process have been identified. The report is intended to provide guidelines for new and/or existing producers of asphalt rubber binders to produce more uniform binders and to identify those factors which need to be closely monitored.