Overview
Micro surfacing Bitumen Emulsion, incorporates polymer modifiers into the bitumen emulsion. These polymers enhance the performance characteristics of the micro surfacing mixture, making it more durable, flexible, and resistant to wear and weathering.
Composition
- Bitumen Emulsion: The base of the mixture is bitumen emulsion, which is a stable combination of bitumen (asphalt), water, and an emulsifying agent
- Polymer Modifiers: Various polymers, such as latex polymers or elastomers, are added to the bitumen emulsion. These polymers are often elastomeric and are chosen for their ability to improve the elasticity, flexibility, and resistance to cracking and rutting in the micro surfacing layer
USAGE
- Polymer-based micro surfacing emulsion is used in the construction of micro surfacing layers, just like conventional micro surfacing
- It is typically applied to existing asphalt surfaces to provide a protective overlay that extends the pavement's lifespan and improves its performance.
Benefits
- Enhanced Durability: The addition of polymers enhances the durability and longevity of the micro surfacing layer, making it more resistant to wear, fatigue, and weathering.
- Flexibility: Polymer-based micro surfacing is more flexible and can better adapt to minor surface movements and deformations.
- Improved Skid Resistance: It can provide better skid resistance, which is important for road safety
- Preventive Maintenance: It is an effective tool for preventive maintenance, protecting the underlying pavement and avoiding the need for more extensive and costly repairs.
Process
- The application process for polymer-based micro surfacing emulsion is similar to traditional micro surfacing, involving surface preparation, mixture preparation, application, curing, and marking.
- Polymer-based micro surfacing is commonly used in a range of road maintenance and pavement preservation projects. It is suitable for applications where extended pavement life, improved skid resistance, and enhanced surface durability are required.
- This type of micro surfacing is particularly beneficial in areas with moderate to heavy traffic loads, as the added polymers help withstand the stress and wear caused by such traffic.
- Micro surfacing emulsion is a valuable tool in maintaining and extending the life of asphalt surfaces while providing cost-effective solutions for pavement preservation.