Characterization of Asphalts Using Gel Permeation Chromatography and Other Methods

摘要

Gel permeation chromatography (GPC), Corbett analysis, Heithaus test and other physical and chemical tests have been used to characterize asphalts and to relate chemical properties, physical properties and performance. The GPC analytical methods were developed extensively to increase the sensitivity to asphalts. A series of pure compounds and an asphalt standard were used to insure accuracy and reproducibility. The GPC can be used to determine changes with time in asphalts from a particular supplier and to detect excessive changes in asphalts during the hot-mix process. Corbett fractions of the virgin asphalts and cores from Study 287 test pavements were analyzed by GPC. A method was also developed to indicate asphalt tenderness based on the Heithaus test, asphaltene analysis or GPC analysis.