Optimization of Activated Rubber Asphalt Production Parameters Based on Rheological Properties and Multi-Index Evaluation

TL;DR

This paper finds the best conditions to make high-quality activated rubber asphalt using microwave activation and multiple performance indicators.

Contribution

A novel multi-indicator evaluation model using the RSR method to optimize activated rubber asphalt production parameters.

Findings

Reaction temperature had the strongest influence on rubber asphalt properties (gray correlation > 0.85).

Optimal parameters improved rheological stability and high-temperature performance significantly.

The best parameters were 220°C, 1000 rpm stirring rate, and 120 minutes reaction time.

Abstract

This study presents a method to more reasonably control the quality performance of activated rubber asphalt by microwave activation. Different activated rubber asphalt preparation process parameters (reaction temperature, stirring rate, and reaction time) were selected to explore the influence of different process parameters on the macroscopic properties of rubber asphalt, and a multi-indicator evaluation model was set up using the theoretical method of the RSR model to determine the optimal production process parameters. The results showed that reaction temperature had the strongest influence (gray correlation > 0.85) among production parameters, followed by stirring rate and reaction time. The optimal parameters identified were a reaction temperature of 220 °C, a stirring rate of 1000 rpm, and a reaction time of 120 min, under which the viscosity–temperature sensitivity decreased by approximately 18%, and the rutting factor (G*/sinδ) increased by over 20%, indicating significant improvements in rheological stability and high-temperature performance. The integrated evaluation approach provided reliable and practical guidance for producing high-performance activated rubber asphalt.

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