United States Department of Transportation
i
Chemical Composition of Asphalt as Related to Asphalt Durability: State of the Art
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1984-07-01
[PDF-880.26 KB]
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Edition:Special report
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Abstract:The literature relating asphalt chemical composition and asphalt durability was reviewed and interpreted. Two major chemical factors affecting asphalt durability are (1) compatibility of the interacting asphalt components and (2) resistance to change from oxidative aging. Historically, studies of asphalt have been facilitated by separation of asphalt into component fractions; however, these fractions are commlex mixtures whose composition varies significantly among different asphalts. Reaction of asphalt with atmospheric oxygen leads to its hardening and embrittlement. The hardening phenomenon results primarily from the formation of polar, oxygen-containing functional groups that increase asphalt consistency through strong molecular interaction forces. The identification and characterization of the interacting chemical functional types normally present in asphalt or formed on oxidative aging affords a fundamental approach to composition-property-performance relationships both asphalts and asphalt-aggregate mixtures. In addition to chemical functionality formed on oxidation, asphalt properties are significantly altered by molecular structuring--sometimes called steric hardening. This phenomenon, although highly elusive and difficult to quantify, may also be a major factor contributing to pavement embrittlement. pavement embrittlement.
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