For more than 40 years the durability performance of bitumen binders in sprayed seals has been assessed in Australia using an established laboratory test method known as the durability test (AS 2341.13: 1997). The durability test however has a number of issues including test equipment sustainability.
Australian practitioners identified an urgent need for a more robust test method that could replace the current method while maintaining its important functions.
This report, published in August 2013, presents the results of a literature review and laboratory study which was conducted as part of the development of a new-long term ageing (durability) test.
The literature review of existing low-temperature binder characterisation tests identified a number of test methods that were suitable for use as part of the new durability test method.
Preliminary experimental investigations were conducted to assess the ability of the tests selected during the literature review to characterise the properties of aged bitumen and polymer modified binders. Two methods known as the dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) flow test and the extensiometer critical tip opening displacement (CTOD) test were identified as being the most appropriate for future use.
It has been proposed that further research work be conducted using these two test methods to determine which is most suitable for use in a future long-term ageing test method.
