Using epoxy resin as a bitumen additive to solve cracking in flexible pavements

Abstract

Premature cracking in flexible pavements remains a major challenge, especially in tropical climates where high temperatures and heavy traffic loads hasten deterioration. With a focus on the Rwentobo-Katuna road, which has suffered early damage due to rapid hardening of bitumen and excessive air voids, the study attempts to explore epoxy resin as an additive to enhance the durability of pavement. The key methodologies of the study include assessment of the engineering properties of epoxy resin through tests for ultimate analysis, assessing the physical properties, FTIR, and hydrobromic acid titration. The properties of bitumen and aggregate to be used were also determined, and these were incorporated in the mix to determine the optimum epoxy resin content that enhanced the properties of the new asphalt mix. From modified bitumen samples varied with 2%, 3%, and 5%, results showed that 3% epoxy raised the softening point of the bitumen to 61.4°C and reduced penetration to 39.7mm, and Rolling Thin Film Oven Test results showed aging loss of 0.13% to 0.08%. From the study findings, the study concluded that incorporating 3% epoxy resin enhances bitumen’s resistance to oxidative degradation and cracking; hence, it is recommended for use in flexible pavement designs subjected to thermal stress and oxidation-causing conditions.