Comparación de desempeño de mezclas asfálticas calientes Superpave y Marshall utilizando 1.5% de residuos de caucho de llantas con respecto al material pasante del tamiz No. 50 como reemplazo, con material de la planta Naranjo López de la ciudad de Quito con asfalto AC-20

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable solutions in road infrastructure has motivated the incorporation of recycled materials into asphalt mixtures. This research comparatively evaluates the performance of hot mix asphalts designed using the Marshall and Superpave methods, incorporating 1.5% recycled rubber powder (CRP) from aircraft tires as a replacement for the material passing the No. 50 sieve. The study used stone materials and AC-20 asphalt from the Naranjo López plant in Quito, performing physical and mechanical characterization tests in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, and INEN standards. Parameters such as particle size distribution, specific gravity, abrasive wear, Marshall stability, flow, and dynamic modulus were evaluated at different temperatures using the Superpave protocol. The results showed that the PCR-modified mixtures exhibited slightly higher stability than conventional mixtures using the Marshall method, remaining within the ranges established by Ecuadorian regulation MOP-001-F-2002. Using the Superpave method, the mixtures demonstrated adequate structural stiffness at intermediate temperatures and favorable behavior under permanent deformation, validating their use in medium- and high-traffic areas. The methodological comparison highlighted the superiority of the Superpave system in simulating realistic loading and climate conditions, proving more robust and predictive for long-term performance. The incorporation of PCR provides simultaneous structural and environmental benefits, reducing the demand for virgin aggregates and promoting the recycling of aircraft tires, thus contributing to the responsible management of special waste in Ecuador.