Feasibility study of using bio-asphalt materials in bitumen in terms of rheology and performance grade

With the social and economic developments, as well as the new roads that are being built every year, the need for a smooth and durable pavement that has a longer service life is fully felt. In addition, it is no secret that the use of traditional asphalt mixes causes many environmental problems due to the use of bitumen, which is a non-renewable source. Therefore, researchers have been looking for a solution to improve pavement performance and find a suitable alternative to bitumen. One of these alternative materials is derived from biological sources, commonly referred to as BioAsphalt. In this study, the possibility of using lignin and waste engine oil, which are bio-asphalt materials, in bitumen to improve its properties was investigated. The lignin used in the study was extracted from black liquor. Waste engine oil was also taken from a car repair shop. The samples are PG64-22 as control sample, samples containing 5% and 10% lignin, samples containing 4% waste engine oil, and samples containing both additives. Superpave tests including RV, DSR, BBR, RTFO, PAV and MSCR were performed on all samples at different temperatures to fully examine the samples rheologically. The results showed that the addition of lignin or WEO or a combination of both, can improve the rheological properties of bitumen. Also using waste materials in bitumen can be useful from an environmental and economic point of view.