Evaluation of pyrolytic products obtained from pine cone as bituminous binder additives

This research examined the impact of biochar and bio-oil, derived from the pyrolysis process of pine cones, on a bituminous binder. The bituminous binder underwent modification by including biochar at concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15%, as well as bio-oil at concentrations of 2%, 4%, and 6%. The penetration, softening point, rotational viscometer (RV), and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests were conducted to examine the physical and rheological characteristics of both natural and modified bituminous binders. The binders' temperature sensitivity and rutting resistance were assessed based on the data acquired from the testing. The study concluded that including pyrolytic materials, namely biochar and bio-oil derived from pine cones, as additives in bituminous binders may effectively reduce the temperature sensitivity of the binder and enhance its resistance to rutting.