The impact of EBA and ECB polymer modification of 50/70 bitumen

This paper presents the results of research concerning the EBA (ethylene-butyl acrylate copolymer) and the ECB (ethylene copolymer bitumen) modifications on 50/70 bitumen in contents of 2%, 4% and 6%. The research area included the tests for determination of penetration at 25°C, softening temperature (according to the “Ring and Ball” method) and Fraass breaking point. The research has shown visible impact of both modifiers on the properties of the base 50/70 bitumen significantly reducing the penetration, reducing ductility and increasing softening point. It was also found that the modification slightly increased the breaking point temperature. Analysis of penetration index PI and the temperature range of plasticity (TZP) have shown that the ECB modification has a more positive effect on properties of the bitumen.