Review of Mixing Mechanism and Performance of Natural Rubber with Bituminous Materials

Abstract

Road degradation is a common problem in Malaysia which caused by weather changes, expanding loads as well as the effects of ageing, moisture and temperature results in high maintenance expenses on conventional bitumen pavement. Therefore, it has been recommended on the modification of bitumen as a substitute technique to address this issue and extend the pavement’s lifespan. This study addresses the inadequacy of existing solutions by focusing on the direct mixing approach and the use of pre-treatment using chemical solvent and some additives specifically on epoxidized natural rubber, natural rubber latex and cup lump natural rubber (CLNR). Additionally, this study intends to give a brief summary of how bitumen performance is improved by the inclusion of additives or modifiers by emphasizing the key attributes of modified bitumen after the addition of modifiers. Further information is also provided on the quantity and application method of each addition in order to determine the ideal value for different applications. This study will examine the use of several additives based on past research, such as polyphosphoric acid, Zychotherm, as well as the use of toluene and xylene to maintain the homogeneity of the rubberized bitumen. Studies on the usage of cup lump natural rubber (CLNR) are not common, thus future study should investigate more closely at CLNR and its mixing technique. This research contributes to the field by providing insights into the practical application of modified bitumen for sustainable road construction, especially in regions with a significant rubber industry.