Texture and skid resistance of asphalt mixtures with crumb rubber for safety roads

Abstract

The skid resistance of asphalt pavements is influenced by their texture. While macrotexture has been more extensively studied due to easier measurement methods, microtexture also plays a significant role. Incorporation of crumb rubber (CR) from end-of-life tires into asphalt mixtures has shown potential for improving in skid resistance, though its effects remain underexplored. This study evaluated three types of mixtures (semi-dense AC, stone matrix asphalt SMA, and open-graded BBTM) with varying CR content (0.0%, 0.75%, and 1.5%). The mixtures were subjected to wear and polishing in successive stages, with macrotexture and microtexture analyzed using a laser profilometer and skid resistance measured via the British Pendulum Test (BPN). Predictive models revealed that microtexture revealed that microtexture have a more substantial impact on BPN values compared to macrotexture. Additionally, the presence of CR enhanced skid resistance in SMA and BBTM mixtures.