SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1983
STP31804S

Laboratory and Field Characterization of Sulphlex as a Paving Binder

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Plasticized sulfur (Sulphlex) binders have been developed by the Southwest Research Institute (SWRI) in Texas as a total replacement for asphalt. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation constructed an experimental pavement in October 1980 using Sulphlex 233-A binder. This study consists of laboratory and field characterization of Sulphlex in comparison to a conventional asphalt cement (AC-20).

Basic mix properties (such as, tensile strength, stiffness modulus, resilient modulus of elasticity, Marshall stability, etc.) were determined encompassing a rather wide range of pavement service temperatures: from −29 to 60°C (−20 to 140°F). The mix resistance to moisture-induced damage was also evaluated. The construction and field performance of the Sulphlex pavement have been described.

The tensile strength and stiffness modulus of the Sulphlex mix were determined to be significantly higher than the asphalt mix at temperatures lower than 16°C (60°F). The stiffness moduli data indicate that the Sulphlex mix is likely to be more prone to low temperature, nonload associated pavement cracking. The use of Sulphlex appears more promising in thick pavement layers, such as black base. Future formulations of Sulphlex binder should be aimed to lower the temperature susceptibility characteristics.

Author Information

Kandhal, PS
, Harrisburg, Pa.
Mellott, DB
, Harrisburg, Pa.
Hoffman, GL
, Harrisburg, Pa.
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Details
Developed by Committee: D04
Pages: 102–117
DOI: 10.1520/STP31804S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-4873-4
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-0257-6