A Review on Virgin or Waste Polymers in Bitumen Modification for Ageing and Rejuvenation

Abstract

The physicochemical behavior of polymer‐modified binders suggests suitability for rejuvenating aged pavements and meets base bitumen parameters. The strengthening effect is mainly due to their electronic structures, which interact with asphaltene via CH‐π interactions and crosslinkage reaction with S–H and O–H bonds of base bitumen, along with the virgin and waste polymers used. The functional groups in bitumen play a vital role in enhanced paving resistance after modification. This review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge on the role of polymers in bitumen modification and to identify research gaps. It also discusses underutilized technologies, methods, and future research perspectives to implement more effective road networks for an environmentally sustainable development.