Are there any tricks to preparing a good modified mix sample, or steps that are imperative to obtaining a good reaction – mixing, curing, etc.?
The modifier should be put into the kettle first, and then the bitumen should be added and then blended. This can cut down on blending time. The most important single step is mixing – “if they don’t meet, they don’t mate.” Since we are a catalyst, it is imperative that out product be well dispersed throughout the bitumen. It is also important that the temperatures and time limits in the testing instructions are met, to ensure the proper catalytic reaction.
