Test methods on Binder Selection for Antiskid Surface Applications

Runway surfaces are optimally designed to meet specific mechanical requirements. These specific requirements mainly include surface friction, resistance to raveling, and resistance to chemicals such as de-icing and fuel. Hence, in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and other countries, an additional anti-skid thin surface layer is often applied to provide enough surface friction and avoid hydroplaning. These anti-skid surfaces are specially designed to ensure high friction during a long service life. Until recently, tar-containing material was used as binder. Tar is toxic and not environmentally friendly. For this reason, it is necessary to develop new binders to replace these tar-containing binders. This paper gives a brief introduction on the design approach that was developed to evaluate potential binders and to answer the question if they are qualified to be used for antiskid surfaces on runways. The test methods include Dynamic Shear Rheometer tests (DSR) and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis tests (DMA) on original binders, as well as weather-aged and oxygen-aged binders. Newly designed pull and shear tests were introduced to determine the bonding strength between anti-skid layer and substrate layer.