The rheology of recycled EVA/LDPE modified bitumen

This paper describes linear viscoelasticity, at low and intermediate temperatures, and the flow behaviour, at high temperatures, of polymer modified bitumen (PMB) containing 5 and 9 wt% recycled EVA/LDPE. The relationship between flow behaviour and microstructure of the modified bitumen was also considered, by comparison of experiments carried out in capillary and rotational rheometers and photomicrographs taken using a microscopy system whilst the sample was being sheared. Blends of 60/70 penetration grade bitumen and waste plastic (EVA/LDPE) were processed in an open mixer using a four blade propeller. Rheological tests, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and microscopy showed that the bitumen performance was improved by adding the recycled polymer. As a consequence, the use of recycled EVA/LDPE in PMBs can be considered a suitable and interesting alternative from both an environmental and economical point of view. The experimental results also show that pure bitumen has shear-thinning characteristics. The blending of polymer into the bitumen modifies the melt processing characteristics of the blend, whilst the viscoelastic properties of the semi-solid composite are enhanced.This paper was presented at the first Annual European Rheology Conference (AERC) held in Guimarães, Portugal, September 11-13, 2003.