Study of Combination of Polymers with Bitumen

Author Name(s): Yuliya V. Sayfullina, Elena V. Muruzina
Author Email: sds-m7lab@mail.ru

Abstract

We have considered a possibility of modifying the roofing bitumen by the developed mixed thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) in view of its increased resistance to atmospheric aging. We evaluated the preliminary selection of TPE composition with accordance to the time of dissolution in the bitumen melt and main physical and mechanical properties. In order to determine the best polymer and bitumen compatibility, we calculated the solubility parameter of polymer in hydrocarbon solvents in terms of the shortest dissolution time as well as determined the TPE solubility parameter. The proximity of these indicators demonstrates the successful compatibility of TPE in saturated bitumen maltenes. The assessment of physicotechnical properties of TPE and its components in bitumen showed that highdensity polyethylene (HDPE) and synthetic triple ethylene-propylene rubber (EPR) have a major influence. HDPE increases the heat resistance of polymer modified bitumen composition (PMB) and accelerates the dissolution of TPE in bitumen at processing temperatures. EPR is responsible for the low-temperature properties of PMB composition and increases resistance to atmospheric aging, however, it takes a long time to dissolve in bitumen. We as well used the widely used styrene-butadiene-styrene thermoplastic elastomer (SBS) to compare the modifying effect. Modification of bitumen by TPE is more visible than by SBS or individual components, especially at high concentrations (≥ 10%), and allows to obtain high durability of PMB.

Introduction

Petroleum bitumen in Russia is widely used in construction as the chief component in waterproofing production, roofing materials, and road asphalt concrete. However, its removal from tars at Russian oil refineries does not meet modern requirements for the properties of bitumen (although in some cases attempts for improvement are made) as well as the durability standards [1]. One of the ways to improve the properties of bitumen is carried out by modifying one with polymers [2, 3]. Polymer additives (up to 15%) give bitumen significantly improved properties. The quality is improved due to the creation of an asphalt-polymer structure with simultaneous plasticization of the interframe medium. The main focus during operation is preserving a stable (not stratifiable) elastically deformable structure in such a binder .

Conclusion

The technology of dissolution and physical and technical properties play the significant role in selecting the TPE composition for the modification of bitumen. Our study has established that, in order to obtain a better bitumen-polymer compatibility, it is preferable to calculate the solubility parameters of both. The possibility of varying the composition and concentration of TPE components based on the purpose of bitumen provides a large scope of activity for research

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