Rutting in high-traffic roadways continues to be a challenge for departments of transportation the world over. As older, failing surfaces are replaced, contractors are looking for solutions to improve long-term performance outcomes for the new roadways. A recent World Highways article highlighted how Indian roadways can benefit from incorporating PGXpand® into their polymer modified bitumen (PMB) mixes.
PGXpand is a polymer additive for asphalt that enhances high temperature mix performance without impacting low temperature properties. A specially engineered, bitumen-friendly additive, PGXpand not only lowers viscosity and improves workability but also allows for lower SBS levels.
Developed by Sripath Technologies and marketed in India by Bitpath Pvt. Ltd., PGXpand was put to the test in a roadway trial encompassing a two lane-kilometer length of 40 mm BC overlay on the Beawar Pali Pindwara Tollway, a high-density freight corridor in Rajasthan, India. The trial showed that the PMB mix, with VG30 binder and 1.5% PGXpand, achieved a softening point of 84.2°C, compared to 64°C for the control.
Different mix formulations were used for sections of roadway with varying levels of distress. A 93% density was achieved for the roadway surface after compaction with a vibratory roller. The test was deemed successful by trial organizer and manager Indinfravit. “PGXpand is easier to process and to laydown,” said Kuppam Praneeth, Maintenance Engineer, Indinfravit.
“PGXpand is highly dosage efficient. It lowers the viscosity and enhances the internal lubricity properties in Mixes,” said Sachin Raje, General Manager, Bitpath. “It allows paving at lower temperatures and makes the mix easier to compact. PGXpand has been tested, evaluated, and vetted by leading experts in academia, industry and transportation agencies from around the world. It has been trusted and used on roadways across the globe since 2016.”
Read the full article including the trial details and PGXpand properties.
