Background
Asphalt binder is used as an adhesive to hold aggregate materials together to form bituminous composites used in roads, airports, bridge decks, and roofs. The organic nature of binder makes it susceptible to chemical aging during its service life in outdoor settings. The chemical aging of binder is thought to be a result of irreversible polymerization, oxidation reactions, and the evaporation of lighter compounds. Oxidative aging is one of the most critical factors contributing to the deterioration of binder’s mechanical properties and performance. The oxidation process causes hardening of the binder, which leads to premature cracking.
Recent studies have promoted the use of bio-oils derived from biomass resources such as animal waste, wood-based biomass, algae, and waste cooking oils as partial or full replacements of asphalt binder. This has been shown to reduce the cost and frequency of repair and rehabilitation to asphalt pavements.
Invention Description
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed PhenoLate, a low cost and environmentally friendly anti-aging asphalt formulation using phenol-rich bio-oils. The use of the bio-oils hinders oxidative aging in asphalt binder, which extends the durability of asphalt roads. This invention also extends the sustainability of asphalt production due to the incorporation of biomass waste. Initial studies on this invention showed that bio-oils derived from six wood-based bio-sources with significant amounts of phenol all effectively reduce aging.
Potential Applications
- New construction
- Cold-in-place or hot-in-place recycling
- Sealant and coatings
- Low slope and steep roofs using single-ply, multi-ply, and built-up roofs
Benefits & Advantages
- Low-cost alternative to traditional asphalt binder
- Environmentally friendly & sustainable
- Can be wet blended or sprayed onto existing surfaces
- Extends durability of asphalt roads by hindering oxidative aging