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Multi‑objective optimization of nitrile rubber and thermosets modified bituminous mix using desirability approach
Avani Chopra1, Sandeep Singh1, Abhishek Kanoungo2
1Department of Civil Engineering, Chandigarh University, Mohali, Punjab, India.
This study optimized bitumen performance in road construction using Nitrile rubber (NBR) and thermosets. Optimal conditions yielded maximum Marshall Stability and minimum flow value for modified bituminous concrete.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Civil Engineering
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Bituminous pavements are crucial for road infrastructure.
- Improving pavement performance often involves modifying bitumen with various additives.
- Waste and rubber products offer sustainable solutions for road construction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance bitumen performance by incorporating Nitrile rubber (NBR) and thermosets (Bakelite, Furan Resin, Epoxy Resin).
- To determine the optimal mix for maximum Marshall Stability (MS) and minimum Flow Value (FV) in modified bituminous concrete.
- To investigate the effects of NBR, Bakelite, Furan Resin, and Epoxy Resin on bitumen properties.
Main Methods:
- Taguchi Design of Experiments (DOE) technique for experimental design using Minitab software.
- Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to identify significant parameters affecting MS and FV.
- Multi-objective optimization using the desirability approach in Design expert software.
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) for surface morphology analysis.
Main Results:
- ANOVA identified NBR, Bakelite, Epoxy Resin, and Furan Resin as significant parameters for MS and FV.
- SEM/EDS analysis revealed Sample S1 exhibited a finer surface with smaller pores compared to Sample S34.
- Multi-optimization suggested optimal conditions at 7.6% NBR, 4.8% Bakelite, 2.5% Furan Resin, and 2.6% Epoxy Resin.
- Maximum MS of 14.84 KN and minimum FV of 2.84 mm were achieved at the optimal conditions.
Conclusions:
- The study successfully optimized the bitumen modification process using NBR and thermosets.
- The optimal mix significantly enhances the mechanical properties of bituminous concrete.
- Confirmation runs validated the optimization results, showing less than 5% error.
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