Comparative analysis of cold-mixed epoxy and epoxy SBS-modified asphalts: Curing rheology, thermal, and mechanical properties

[Display omitted] •The cold-mixed epoxy asphalts are prepared.•Compared with ESA, EA shows better processability at ambient temperature.•EA is thermal stable due to 3D networks and high thermal stability of asphalt.•EA shows high mechanical property due to 3D networks and good compatibility. The research evaluated the properties of cold-mixed epoxy asphalt (EA) and cold-mixed epoxy styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS)-modified asphalt (ESA) for paving steel-deck bridges. Compared with ESA, EA showed longer pot life and better processability at ambient temperature, as revealed by curing rheology analysis. The cured EA showed higher glass-transition temperature, superior thermal stability, tensile strength and elongation at breaking than ESA. These may be as a result of: (i) the high thermal stability of asphalt, (ii) the formation of a cross-linking network in the cured material, and (iii) the good compatibility between the epoxy resin and the asphalt.