Influence of Biomass-Modified Asphalt Binder on Rutting Resistance

Abstract

Biomasses are environmentally friendly additives that lower pollution in pavement engineering because of their biodegradability. On the other hand, to build a safe, long-lasting pavement, rutting prevention is crucial. This study provides a comprehensive review of the efficacy of biomass as recyclable materials in reducing rutting and enhancing characteristics of asphalt mixtures. According to findings, the hydrocarbon polymer properties of lignin and biomass ash improve asphalt binder consistency, hardness, and function at high temperatures. The results showed that biochar, due to its solid shape, enhances the stiffness and viscosity of the mixtures. The high-temperature performance of asphalt binder is improved by bioshell waste, which increases rutting parameters. Thus, biomass like ash, lignin, and biochar can increase asphalt binder rheology and rutting resistance due to chemical forces such as Van der Waals and hydrogen ions. The macroscopic and microscopic investigation also shows higher interaction and better adhesion in bioasphalt. However, asphalt binders containing bio-oil exhibited no unique behaviors due to their lubricant impact. Based on the estimation of the life cycle assessment (LCA), it was determined that biomass utilization has the potential to decrease the cost and CO₂ emissions of pavement engineering by as much as 10% and more than three times, respectively. An examination of recyclability revealed that biomass utilization can decrease the requirement for additional stabilizers by as much as 20%.