Rondón-Quintana, et al (2024) Performance Properties of a Hot-Mix Asphalt Modified with Oil Palm Kernel Shell–Based BiocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More for Road Pavements. Journal of Transportation Engineering, Part B: Pavements. https://ascelibrary.org/doi/abs/10.1061/JPEODX.PVENG-1619

The rise in agro-industrial activities has led to increased biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More waste, posing environmental challenges. PyrolysisPyrolysis is a thermochemical process that converts waste biomass into bio-char, bio-oil, and pyro-gas. It offers significant advantages in waste valorization, turning low-value materials into economically valuable resources. Its versatility allows for tailored products based on operational conditions, presenting itself as a cost-effective and efficient More of these biomasses can convert them into biochar (BC), a material with potential applications in asphalt modification. A recent study explored the use of biochar derived from oil palm kernel shell (BC-PKS) to modify asphalt cement (AC 60-70), producing a biochar-modified binder (AC-BC).

In this study, 10% BC-PKS was incorporated into the total mass of the asphalt binder. Physical characterization tests such as penetration, viscosity, softening point, and ductility were conducted on both unmodified (AC 60-70) and modified binders (AC-BC). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) visualizations provided insights into BC-PKS and AC-BC structures.

Hot-mix asphalt (HMA) was manufactured using AC-BC (HMA-BC) and subjected to monotonic and cyclic loading tests. Key performance evaluations included Marshall stability, indirect tensile strength in dry and wet conditions, resilient modulus, permanent deformation, fatigue resistance, tensile strength ratio (TSR), and Cantabro wear resistance.

Compared to control mixes with unmodified asphalt, HMA-BC demonstrated higher stiffness under cyclic loading, improved resistance to permanent deformation, moisture damage, fatigue, and abrasive wear. Importantly, these improvements were achieved without increasing the optimum asphalt binder content, altering HMA composition, or raising mixing and compaction temperatures.

This study concludes that BC-PKS is a promising, sustainable modifier for asphalt binders, offering enhanced mechanical performance for hot-mix asphalt applications.