Modification of polymer-bitumen binders by resin from the thermochemical processing of lignite with petroleum sludge

The goal of this research is to find a plasticizer suitable as a replacement for expensive industrial oil, which is used in the preparation of polymer-bitumen binder, without loss of binder performance. The performance of the binders produced on the basis of the proposed plasticizer is assessed experimentally in terms of their penetration, softening temperature, extensibility, and other properties. Their adhesion is evaluated not only on the basis of State Standard GOST 11508-74 but also by the MI 8–85 quantitative method. Analysis of the results indicates that the proposed plasticizer—resin from the processing of lignite with petroleum sludge—may be used to prepare polymer-bitumen binder. Binder 3, containing 85% bitumen, 4% styrene-butadiene-styrene polymer, and 11% resin from the processing of lignite with petroleum sludge, is optimal and complies with State Standard GOST R 52056-2003 in terms of penetration, extensibility, adhesion, softening temperature, and brittleness. Its elasticity may be increased by boosting the content of the polymer modifier. Analysis of test data for the binder after aging (5 h at 160°C) suggests that a three-component bitumen-polymer-plasticizer structure is formed. That is one of the preconditions ensuring that the asphalt concrete produced by means of the polymer-bitumen binder has the required characteristics.