Abstract

The level of performance of asphalt concrete has a close relationship with the properties of bitumen used. This research evaluates the rheological parameters of graphite modified bitumen. Index properties tests were conducted on bitumen and graphite to determine their suitability. Dynamic viscosity and dynamic shear rheometer were conducted on bituminous binder modified with four different proportion of graphite ranging from 2% to 10% by bitumen weight. Dynamic viscosity test was conducted on bitumen and graphite modified bitumen at temperature of 1350C and 1650C using Brookfield Viscometer. The rheological properties are centered on phase angle (δ) and complex shear modulus (G*) which were determined on bitumen and graphite modified bitumen at temperature ranging from 520C – 700C at 10 rad/s frequency using Dynamic Shear Rheometer in accordance with ASTM D7175-15. The storage modulus (G'), loss modulus (G") and rutting parameters were then evaluated from phase angle and complex shear modulus. The bitumen and graphite modified bitumen showed that graphite modified bitumen has the highest complex shear modulus and rutting parameter of 8984 (kPa) and 33387 (kPa) at 10% graphite content. The results of viscosity helped to determine the mixing and compaction temperatures. Dynamic shear rheometer test results determined the elastic and viscous behaviour at various temperature. The higher the complex shear modulus and rutting parameter the stiffer the binder will resist deformation and rutting.