Bio-Degradable Wax to Modify Asphalt Binder for Warm Mix Asphalt

Abstract

In order to reduce production and compaction temperatures, as well as to increase the resistance to permanent deformation, synthetically refined waxes are commonly used as additives in asphalt pavements. This study focuses on the capability of replacing synthetically refined wax with bio-degradable wax. Ten different bio-waxes (called Biomer) with varying melting ranges and composition, as well as three conventional waxes (Sasobit®, Licomont®, and Asphaltan) are mixed with a virgin bitumen of standard type 50/70. Different conventional and rheological properties are determined for these viscosity-modified binders to evaluate the effect of the waxes. Two promising Biomer waxes (BIT111 and BIT140) were identified, which show almost identical results compared to Sasobit® and Licomont®, respectively. The results indicate that replacement of synthetic wax by bio-degradable wax is technically feasible. Additionally, the potential of asphalt pavements to form a source of microplastic is evaluated in this study. It is found that bitumen and wax cannot be considered as a source of microplastic.

Stabilization of Beeswax-In-Water Dispersions Using Anionic Cellulose Nanofibers and Their Application in Paper Coating

“…Natural waxes are intrinsically hydrophobic materials with a high potential to replace polyethylene-based waxes, paraffin wax, acrylic waxes, polyoxyethylene glycol waxes, styrene-butadiene latex, and other synthetic substances that, despite their proven usability, ultimately come from fossil resources [ 16 ]. Beeswax (BW), like other natural waxes, has some key advantages that may convince manufacturers to use it in water-resistant products.…”

The Combined Effects of Additives on the Conventional and High-Temperature Performance Properties of Warm Mix Asphalt Binders

“…Although the underlying mechanisms behind these effects are still not well understood, the postulated ones include the antioxidative and dispersive action of these additives. A different group of warm mix processes relies on the use of waxes of different origins, which not only decrease the processing temperatures of asphalt mixtures but often may enhance their high-temperature and moisture performance [40][41][42][43][44][45]. It was also found that some synthetic waxes have the capacity to slow down the formation of carbonyl compounds in asphalt binders and therefore decrease the aging-induced changes in their properties, as quantified, e.g., using aging indices [11,46,47].…”