Using Polymer Modified Asphalt Emulsions in Surface Treatments A ...
Using Polymer Modified Asphalt Emulsions in Surface Treatments A ...
Using Polymer Modified Asphalt Emulsions in Surface Treatments A ...
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• Forced Air-Dry<strong>in</strong>g Method – This extraction technique utilizes forced air flow at<br />
ambient (22º C.) temperatures to facilitate water evaporation. Although this<br />
method is generally regarded as be<strong>in</strong>g one of the most representative of actual<br />
field conditions, it is a lengthy process to complete (i.e., 300 to 360 m<strong>in</strong>utes) and<br />
approximately one day is required to prepare the sample for extraction (59).<br />
• Vacuum Distillation Method – The sample is placed <strong>in</strong>to a vacuum distillation<br />
unit at a temperature of 115º C. Takamura (2000) has noted that microscopic<br />
exam<strong>in</strong>ations of samples extracted through distillation exhibit undesirable<br />
changes <strong>in</strong> polymer network morphology <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g cross-l<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g and polymer<br />
decomposition ow<strong>in</strong>g to the application of excessive heat (60). These changes<br />
can lead to viscosity <strong>in</strong>consistencies and the degradation of other performance<br />
measures. Thus, it is suggested that vacuum distillation may only be<br />
appropriate for determ<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g the presence of polymer, not for ascerta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g the<br />
placed network structure.<br />
Key factors which should be considered when select<strong>in</strong>g a residue extraction<br />
methodology <strong>in</strong>clude:<br />
• Reproducibility – Residue samples repeatedly extracted from the same emulsion<br />
mix should yield statistically similar results when subjected to test<strong>in</strong>g techniques<br />
such as DSR, soften<strong>in</strong>g po<strong>in</strong>t, penetration, etc. Extraction techniques that tend<br />
to yield widely divergent physical property test results are not suitable for <strong>in</strong>sur<strong>in</strong>g<br />
accurate characterization of modified emulsion performance.<br />
• Time – Various extraction methods have different process<strong>in</strong>g time requirements<br />
which must be considered from a logistical standpo<strong>in</strong>t. For example, lengthy<br />
extraction techniques may not be appropriate for use at the emulsion production<br />
site if accurate test results cannot be obta<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong> a timely manner prior to field<br />
placement.<br />
• Cost – Differences <strong>in</strong> sample preparation time, extraction time, and equipment<br />
requirements can translate <strong>in</strong>to vary<strong>in</strong>g costs between methods.<br />
46