Bitumen chemical modification by thiourea dioxide

Abstract

This work evaluates a novel bitumen modification through the use of a chemical agent, thiourea dioxide, substance which has been traditionally used as a reducing agent. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated the formation of new chemical compounds, most probably originated through reactions between products from thiourea dioxide thermal decomposition and some highly polar bitumen molecules. As a result of these reactions, which continues even after 60 days, bitumen permanent deformation resistance at high temperature is enhanced, as indicated by a significant increase in its viscosity and elastic features. On the other hand, thiourea dioxide addition produces changes in the bitumen colloidal nature, which improve its flexibility at low in-service temperatures, and consequently its resistance to thermal cracking under loading. In fact, dynamic bending tests indicated a remarkable decrease in the value of binder glass transition temperature, which was further corroborated by differential scanning calorimetry. As a conclusion, thiourea dioxide can be seen as a promising modifiying agent, which can extend the in-service temperature range at which bitumen would present a satisfactory performance.