Asphaltrubber

Asphaltrubber refers to a rubber-modified asphalt binder produced by blending crumb rubber from recycled tires with asphalt binder. The resulting material is used to produce rubberized asphalt concrete and other asphalt mixtures, offering enhanced elasticity and resistance to deformation. The concept originated in the mid-20th century and has since been implemented in various road-paving programs around the world.

There are two common production routes. In the wet process, crumb rubber is blended with hot asphalt to form an asphalt-rubber binder before mixing with aggregates. In the dry process, crumb rubber is incorporated into the mixture during mixing with the aggregate and hot asphalt. The crumb rubber can vary in size, and the proportion of rubber relative to binder influences the final properties of the asphalt.

Rubber-modified binders improve elasticity and fatigue resistance, reducing rutting and crack propagation in hot climates. They can also dampen pavement noise and extend service life under heavy traffic. Applications include rubberized asphalt concrete and other asphalt mixtures used for highways, interchanges, and local roads. The environmental benefit stems from recycling scrap tires, though production demands specialized equipment and can involve higher energy use and potential odor concerns during processing.

Limitations include higher viscosity and the need for dedicated plants or equipment, which can raise construction costs. Compatibility with existing aggregates and binders, as well as aging behavior and long-term performance, require careful quality control. Despite these considerations, asphaltrubber remains a viable option in regions that prioritize tire recycling and enhanced pavement performance, with specifications and practices varying by jurisdiction.