Use of sugarcane molasses for preparation of bio-asphalt: Effect of source

Abstract

Demand for asphalt binder is on rampant rise due to overpopulation and rapid urbanization. Non-renewability and fluctuating price of asphalt binder have prompted research efforts in the direction of sustainable flexible pavements using bio-asphalt. This study is aimed to evaluate the feasibility and source variability of sugarcane molasses (SM) as a partial replacement of asphalt binder. Three sources of SM were used in the study. A series of conventional, chemical, rheological, and storage tests were conducted. The optimum dosage of SM for partial replacement was found to be 30% by weight of asphalt binder. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results revealed the possibility of chemical interaction between SM and asphalt binder. Through rheological mastercurves, it was found that the addition of SM, regardless of the dosage, improved permanent deformation characteristics. The segregation test results indicated adequate thermal storage stability of bio-asphalts. Further, statistical analysis showed that the source of SM had no significant impact on the physical and rheological characteristics of the bio-asphalt. Cost analysis showed that 30% incorporation of SM could lower the cost of asphalt production by 20–30%.