Performance-related and rheological characterisation of natural rubber modified bitumen

This paper is motivated by the limited research available evaluating comprehensive effects of natural rubber bitumen modification (NR) for pavement applications. A detailed laboratory programme was carried out to evaluate influence NR on high-intermediate-low temperature performance, including rheological characterisations and performance-related tests (fatigue cracking, thermal fracture permanent deformation resistance). The main findings indicate some beneficial response fatigue deformation. Additional benefits were observed regarding strength cracking resistance (?Tc). viscoelastic produced significant changes in properties base bitumen. Overall, use at a concentration up 7% weight proved be reasonable option applications, having more substantial tropical regions agreement with its predominant intermediate-to-high conditions.