The effect of the use of polyfibers on asphalt mixture properties

In this thesis, the effect of the use of polyfibers on asphalt mixture properties was studied. Polyfiber (polypropylene fiber-PPF) with the length of 19 mm was utilized in the experimental studies with the ratio of PPF in asphalt mixtures specified as 0.3 %, 0.6 % and 1 % by the total weight of the mixture. Marshall mix design method was used to determine the optimum asphalt contents for conventional mixture and modified mixtures. Marshall specimens were prepared with a similar aggregate gradation of binder layer Type 1 as described in the manual of the General Directorate of Highways of Turkey. 50/70 penetration bitumen was used in all the experiments at 143 °C mixing temperature. Bulk specific gravity, voids analysis, stability, and flow tests were conducted on these specimens. According to the test results obtained from the laboratory studies, some improvements (such as stability and flow) on properties of modified asphalt mixtures were observed due to the inclusion of polyfiber. Keywords: Polyfiber, Marshall mix design method, Stability, Flow.