Comparative analysis of cold-mixed epoxy and epoxy SBS-modified asphalts: Curing rheology, thermal, and mechanical properties

The research evaluated the properties of cold-mixed epoxy asphalt (EA) and cold-mixed epoxy styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS)-modified asphalt (ESA) for paving steel-deck bridges. Compared with ESA, EA showed longer pot life and better processability at ambient temperature, as revealed by curing rheology analysis. The cured EA showed higher glass-transition temperature, superior thermal stability, tensile strength and elongation at breaking than ESA. These may be as a result of: (i) the high thermal stability of asphalt, (ii) the formation of a cross-linking network in the cured material, and (iii) the good compatibility between the epoxy resin and the asphalt.