Mechanical Characteristics of Environmentally Friendly Permeable Pavement: Enhanced Porous Asphalt

Abstract

This study explores the mechanical properties of porous-asphalt pavement, focusing on the influence of various polymers (elastomeric and reactive elastomeric terpolymers) and different aggregate compositions. Two aggregates were utilized: one is exclusively limestone-based and the other is a blend of limestone and basalt aggregates. The research findings unveiled that mixtures containing the conventional bitumen failed to meet the Cantabro loss-test criterion required for porous asphalt, necessitating a maximum threshold of 20%. In contrast, asphalt mixtures modified with polymers exhibited notably superior performance, particularly in terms of permeability, Cantabro loss and the ratio of indirect tensile strength. These results underscore the significant impact of polymer modification on enhancing the crucial mechanical properties of porous asphalt. Therefore, the study suggests the adoption of polymer-modified asphalt as a viable strategy to improve pavement longevity and overall performance, promoting its use for sustainable and durable infrastructure.