Assessing the Effects of Waste Polyethylene Terephthalate Oligomer (WPETO)-Modified Asphalt Binder on Rheological Behavior

In this study, the rheological properties of asphalt binders modified with oligomer from Waste Polyethylene Terephthalate (WPETO) were investigated and compared to unmodified binders. The Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) test was utilized to assess the viscoelastic behavior, and parameters like R-index and Glover-Rowe parameters were analyzed. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of WPETO improved stiffness and elasticity, leading to enhanced mechanical performance and temperature susceptibility. The modified binders exhibited superior resistance to rutting and fatigue cracking, along with improved viscoelastic behavior and higher critical temperatures. The modified product showed good storage stability. Additionally, the addition of WPETO enhanced durability and longevity, providing increased resistance to cracking at intermediate temperatures. However, it was observed that WPETO-modified binders were more susceptible to oxidative aging, although they maintained good resistance to cracking. Nonetheless, their sensitivity to deformation changes might affect fatigue life at higher strain levels. Overall, the study highlights the potential of WPETO as an additive to enhance asphalt binder properties.