Work

Influence of RAP content on the viscoelastic properties of asphalt mixtures

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the influence of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) content on the viscoelastic behavior of asphalt concrete mixtures through dynamic modulus testing and rheological modeling. Asphalt mixtures containing 12.5%, 30%, and 40% RAP were evaluated using both empirical sigmoid master curves and the rheological 2S2P1D model. Results show that increasing RAP content leads to higher dynamic modulus and lower phase angle, indicating stiffer and more elastic behavior due to the aged binder in RAP. Loss modulus analysis revealed reduced energy dissipation in high-RAP mixtures, suggesting decreased stress-relaxation and increased cracking potential. Relaxation modulus curves confirmed that higher RAP mixtures retain stiffness over time, while lower RAP mixtures exhibit greater flexibility. The findings underscore the trade-off between stiffness and flexibility in RAP-modified mixtures.

Source: Transportation research procedia

DOI: 10.1016/j.trpro.2026.07.115

Authors: Ephrem Taddesse, Mequanent Mulugeta Alamnie, Yonatan Russom Afeworki

Institutions: Norwegian Public Roads Administration, University of South-Eastern Norway, University of Agder

Language: English

Topic: Asphalt Pavement Performance Evaluation

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Universitetet i Agder

OpenAlex ID: W7204186930

FWCI:

Cites: 5

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Related to: 10