Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This article explores the use of rubber–polymer composites for bitumen modification. The hybrid modifier consists not only of devulcanized rubber derived from used car tires but also includes post-consumer plastics such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). The characteristics of the asphalt binder improved after modification with the hybrid additive. This study examined the potential of enhancing the physico-mechanical properties of road bitumen using hybrid modifiers based on waste materials. Experimental results showed that all hybrid modifier compositions (based on rubber and polyethylene/polypropylene) significantly increased the softening point of bitumen and improved its thermal stability. In particular, the addition of 20–30% polyethylene raised the softening point to 80 °C, which is 20 °C higher than that of unmodified 70/100 grade bitumen. It was found that an increase in the polymer content led to a systematic rise in softening temperature. Moreover, a sample containing 20% of a modifier with 10% polypropylene achieved an elastic recovery of 54–55%, meeting the minimum standard requirement in Kazakhstan (≥50%). Needle penetration test results confirmed the increased hardness of the bitumen, with the value dropping from 90.8 to 26.6 at 25 °C. Overall, the study demonstrated that the use of hybrid modifiers based on waste polymers and rubber can produce environmentally sustainable and high-quality road bitumen. The findings confirm that such modifiers significantly enhance the high-temperature stability and elasticity of bitumen, expanding the potential for effective and eco-friendly reuse of rubber and plastic waste in road construction.
Source: Neft i gaz
Authors: A.Ch. Bussurmanova, A.Sh. Akkenzheyeva, Y.I. Imanbayev, U.К. Yensegenova, Y.O. Ayapbergenov, BRANCH OF LLP "KMG ENGINEERING" "KAZNIPINEFTGAZ", А.N. Boranbayeva, M.B. Turkmenbayeva, M.Zh. Aimova
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4416736737