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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

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