Effects of Sugar Beet Molasses and Molasses-Based Boron Oxide Compound on Bitumen Properties

Abstract

In this study, sugar beet molasses and molasses-based boron oxide compound (MBOC) were used to modify the base bitumen. Sugar beet molasses is an organic waste material obtained from raw sugar during the refining process at sugar refineries. Molasses-based boron oxide is a synthetic material derived chemically in laboratory conditions by using proper amounts of sugar beet molasses and boron oxide. Each additive material was added separately at a level between 1 and 10% by weight of the 50/70 penetration grade-base bitumen. The effects of the modifications on the bitumen and bituminous mixture properties were examined by means of a laboratory test group including rotational viscosity, penetration, softening point, ductility, dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), and Marshall Stability and Nicholson stripping tests. According to the Marshall Stability and Nicholson stripping test results, the bituminous mixture performance was found to be improved by MBOC, however, it stayed at the same level with sugar beet molasses.