Abstract:
This study investigates the modification of bituminous mixtures by varying percentages
of PET particles (1%, 3%, 5%, 8%, 10%, and 12% PET). The following methods were employed to
analyze the samples: the ring-and-ball softening point determination method (ASTM D36/D36M-14),
the Fraass breaking point determination method (EN 12593: 2015), the elongation determination
method (EN 13589: 2014), and the needle penetration depth determination method (EN 1426: 2015).
Optimal bitumen/PET ratios were identified to obtain modified bituminous mixtures (MBMs) with
enhanced operational characteristics (5% and 8% PET). The physical and mechanical properties of
the investigated bitumen samples and PET were determined. A comparative analysis of the modified
bituminous mixture samples based on their physical and mechanical properties was conducted.
Microstructures of the surface of modified bituminous mixture samples with varying modifier
contents were obtained. An X-ray structural analysis was performed on the samples of modified
bituminous mixtures with varying PET contents. The dependencies of the moisture absorption rate
on time were determined for the samples of modified bituminous mixtures with different modifier
contents. The values of the stress intensity factor were determined based on the number of loading
cycles in fatigue tests using three-point bending for the samples of modified bituminous mixtures
with varying modifier contents.
