Characterization and Design of Circular Binders

Hans C. Hendrikse (), Hamza El Khallabi, Thomas Hartog, Aikaterini Varveri and Anthon Tolboom
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Hans C. Hendrikse: Latexfalt B.V., 2396 AP Koudekerk aan den Rijn, The Netherlands
Hamza El Khallabi: Institute for Life Sciences & Chemistry, Hogeschool Utrecht, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
Thomas Hartog: Latexfalt B.V., 2396 AP Koudekerk aan den Rijn, The Netherlands
Aikaterini Varveri: Pavement Engineering, Engineering Structures Department, Delft University of Technology, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
Anthon Tolboom: Latexfalt B.V., 2396 AP Koudekerk aan den Rijn, The Netherlands

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 17, 1-9

Abstract: The concept of a circular economy, where waste materials are transformed into valuable resources, is gaining increasing attention. However, many waste streams are difficult to recycle due to their mixed composition and broad molecular distribution. This paper explores the potential of repurposing mixed materials, specifically focusing on creating a circular alternative to bitumen, a fossil-based binder used in road construction. The molecular weight and composition of bitumen are analyzed using gas chromatography (GC) and infrared spectroscopy (IR). This study proposes using waste plastics and bio-based oils to develop a paving binder with similar molecular distribution. Various plastic types, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), isotactic polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), are examined for their compatibility with different oils. It is observed that the compatibility of both the molecular weight and composition between the plastic and oil is crucial for the successful dissolution and homogeneity of the binder. Additionally, the crystallinity of the plastic plays a role in the flexibility and durability of the resulting binder. It is demonstrated that by carefully selecting waste materials and understanding their molecular characteristics, it is possible to create circular alternatives to fossil-based materials like bitumen. This approach has the potential to reduce waste, lower dependence on fossil resources, and contribute to sustainable and circular construction materials.

Keywords: bitumen alternative; circular binder; gas chromatography; waste plastic; tall oil pitch; molecular distribution (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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