Research Progress on Bio-Based Polyurethane-Modified Asphalt Technology

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Sustainable Engineering
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Traditional petroleum asphalt faces limitations in long-life, low-carbon road construction due to resource dependence and aging.
• Growing demand for green construction materials necessitates sustainable alternatives like bio-based asphalt.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular characteristics of bio-based precursors for polyurethane networks.
• To summarize the impact of these precursors on asphalt performance and sustainability.
• To identify challenges and future directions for bio-based polyurethane-modified asphalt (Bio-PUMA).

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on bio-based precursors (vegetable oil, rosin, lignin).
• Analysis of structure-property relationships in bio-based polyols and their effect on polyurethane networks.
• Evaluation of influence on asphalt microphase morphology and pavement performance.

Main Results:

• Bio-based polyol characteristics (functionality, backbone, hydroxyl value, segment ratio) dictate crosslinking density and phase behavior.
• These factors significantly influence rutting, cracking, and aging resistance, as well as interfacial adhesion.
• Bio-PUMA demonstrates potential for enhanced pavement performance and reduced carbon footprint.

Conclusions:

• Bio-PUMA presents a promising avenue for sustainable road construction.
• Further research is needed to address feedstock stability, performance balance, and long-term validation.
• Standardization, precise molecular design, and engineering validation are crucial for widespread Bio-PUMA application.