Performance of bituminous concrete mixes using waste eggshell as a bitumen modifier

Abstract

Abstract The study focuses to investigate the strength performance of bituminous concrete mixes using waste eggshells to contribute to sustainable development. The waste eggshells converted in powder form then Calcium Oxide (CaO) was obtained by calcination process at 900C temperature which was confirmed using XRD test. Then different percentage of CaO (1%, 2%, 3%, 4% and 5% by weight of bitumen) is added to the virgin bitumen as a modifier. It was observed that 3% CaO was found to be optimum modifier content. Addition of 3% CaO to virgin bitumen, the penetration and ductility values decreased by 25.3% and 46.8% respectively. But the softening point value increased by 18.4% at the same percentage of CaO. The strength performance of the bituminous mixes with CaO modified binder was evaluated in terms of Marshall Stability, Indirect Tensile Strength test and Moisture Susceptibility test. Marshall stability value, indirect tensile strength value and moisture susceptibility value of bituminous concrete mixes with 3% CaO were increased by 6.4%, 18.56% and 5.5%, respectively. It is observed from the present study that CaO used as a bitumen modifier has improved the physical properties of bituminous binder as well as the strength properties of the mixes. It indicates that bituminous mixes with CaO modified bituminous binder can also be used in high traffic and high temperature areas.