Improving Rutting Resistance with Gilsonite

Rutting — permanent grooves in the wheel paths — is a common failure in hot climates and on heavily trafficked roads. Gilsonite is a proven way to reduce it.

Why roads rut

Under high temperatures and heavy, slow-moving loads, asphalt binder becomes soft and the mix deforms. Rutting is worst at intersections, bus stops and climbing lanes.

How gilsonite helps

Gilsonite increases binder stiffness at high temperatures, raising softening point and the high-temperature PG grade. Stiffer binder means less permanent deformation.

Evidence from testing

Wheel-tracking tests usually show lower rut depth for gilsonite-modified mixes compared with unmodified mixes of the same base binder.

Balancing low-temperature performance

Too much stiffness can increase the risk of cracking in cold weather. In regions with cold winters, use moderate dosages or combine with a softer base binder.

Where to use it

• Intersections and bus lanes
• Port and industrial pavements
• Airport aprons and taxiways
• Hot desert regions

Typical lab comparison

Actual values depend on materials and test conditions, so run tests with your own aggregates.

Field factors

Rutting also depends on aggregate skeleton, compaction and layer thickness. Gilsonite works best as part of a sound overall design.

Our asphalt modifier grade gilsonite is used for heavy-duty pavements. Compare with polymers in gilsonite vs. SBS polymer.