Photochemical Degradation of Natural Rubber

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 40 views

Natural Rubber Photochemical Degradation as a Compatibilizer of Asphalt Mixture: A Breakthrough in Road Construction

Introduction

The construction of roads and highways is a crucial aspect of modern infrastructure development. However, the quality of asphalt mixtures used in road construction is often compromised due to the lack of suitable additives that can enhance its properties. In this context, the use of natural rubber (NR) as a compatibilizer in asphalt mixtures has gained significant attention in recent years. This article discusses the application of photochemical degradation of natural rubber as a compatibilizer in asphalt mixtures, highlighting its potential to improve the quality of asphalt and contribute to environmentally friendly technology in road construction.

Photochemical Degradation of Natural Rubber

Photochemical degradation of natural rubber is a process that involves the use of ultraviolet (UV) light to break down the molecular chains of NR. This process is carried out using a 30-watt UV lamp, 0.25 mol H2O2, Surfactant Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), and 20% of dry rubber content from NR, for 72 hours at 70 ° C. The analysis results using gel permeation chromatography (GPC) showed that the molecular weight of the NR decreased by 50%, while the polydispersity value decreased from 35.11 to 7.5. This indicates that NR has experienced a termination of molecular chains, resulting in a more stable and homogeneous mixture.

Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Analysis

The FT-IR analysis results also showed that the termination of the NR molecular chain occurs in the C-C Alpha bond, which produces a group of terminal hydroxyl. This is characterized by the appearance of vibrations in the wave number 3381 cm-1. The presence of terminal hydroxyl groups in NRD is crucial for its interaction with the asphalt matrix, resulting in a more stable and homogeneous mixture.

Mixing of NRD with Asphalt

The NRD results are subsequently mixed with asphalt with NRD composition variations of 8%, 10%, 12%, 14%, and 16% of the asphalt mass. Based on testing the main characteristics of asphalt, namely the melting point, penetration, and toughness, the addition of 12% NRD to the asphalt gives the best results. Mixture with this composition shows the melting point value of 60.5 ° C, penetration of 56.75 (0.1 mm), and toughness of 105.5 cm, all of which meet SNI 8198: 2015 standards.

Marshall Test

After obtaining an optimal asphalt mixture, which is a 12% asphalt-NRD mixture, the material is added to the aggregate to produce sand sheets. This mixture stability is tested using a Marshall tool. The results of the Marshall test showed the optimum ratio of the asphalt-kad mixture to the aggregate was 6.35: 93.65, with the stability value of Marshall which also met SNI 06-2489-1991 standards.

Additional Analysis and Explanation

The process of degradation of natural rubber photochemicals opens new opportunities to improve the quality of asphalt. Degraded natural rubber has the ability to increase the adhesion and flexibility of asphalt, which is important for road applications that experience heavy loads and changes in temperature. The addition of NRD allows asphalt to have better elastic properties, thereby increasing resistance to cracks and deformation.

Success in reducing the molecular weight of NR and polydispersity also plays an important role in improving mixed performance. This molecular weight loss indicates that NRD has more suitable characteristics for interacting with asphalt matrix, producing a more homogeneous and stable mixture.

Testing using the Marshall method also gives confidence that the asphalt mixture produced not only meets the standards, but is also able to compete with other conventional mixtures in civil application.

Conclusion

The application of photochemical degradation to natural rubber as a compatibilizer in the asphalt mixture is an innovative step that not only improves the quality of materials, but also contributes to the development of environmentally friendly technology in the field of road construction. The use of NRD as an additive in asphalt opens the way for the use of natural materials that are more efficient and sustainable, supporting the goals of sustainable development in the construction industry.

Future Directions

The use of photochemical degradation of natural rubber as a compatibilizer in asphalt mixtures has shown promising results. However, further research is needed to explore its potential applications in other fields, such as the production of biodegradable plastics and the development of sustainable materials for construction. Additionally, the optimization of the degradation process and the characterization of the properties of NRD are essential for its widespread adoption in the industry.

References

SNI 8198: 2015, "Standar Nasional Indonesia untuk Campuran Aspal"
SNI 06-2489-1991, "Standar Nasional Indonesia untuk Uji Marshall"

Note: The references provided are in Indonesian and are specific to the country's standards and regulations. The references may vary depending on the country and region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Natural Rubber Photochemical Degradation as a Compatibilizer of Asphalt Mixture

Q: What is natural rubber photochemical degradation?

A: Natural rubber photochemical degradation is a process that involves the use of ultraviolet (UV) light to break down the molecular chains of natural rubber (NR). This process results in a degraded natural rubber (NRD) with improved properties, such as increased adhesion and flexibility.

Q: What are the benefits of using NRD as a compatibilizer in asphalt mixtures?

A: The use of NRD as a compatibilizer in asphalt mixtures has several benefits, including improved adhesion and flexibility, increased resistance to cracks and deformation, and better elastic properties. These benefits make NRD an attractive additive for asphalt mixtures used in road construction.

Q: How is NRD produced?

A: NRD is produced through the photochemical degradation of natural rubber using a 30-watt UV lamp, 0.25 mol H2O2, Surfactant Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), and 20% of dry rubber content from NR, for 72 hours at 70 ° C.

Q: What are the optimal composition and ratio of NRD to asphalt?

A: The optimal composition and ratio of NRD to asphalt have been found to be 12% NRD to 88% asphalt, with a ratio of 6.35: 93.65 (asphalt-kad mixture to aggregate) for the Marshall test.

Q: What are the standards that the asphalt mixture produced using NRD must meet?

A: The asphalt mixture produced using NRD must meet the standards set by SNI 8198: 2015 and SNI 06-2489-1991.

Q: What are the potential applications of NRD beyond asphalt mixtures?

A: NRD has potential applications beyond asphalt mixtures, including the production of biodegradable plastics and the development of sustainable materials for construction.

Q: What are the future directions for research on NRD?

A: Future research directions for NRD include optimizing the degradation process, characterizing the properties of NRD, and exploring its potential applications in other fields.

Q: Is NRD an environmentally friendly technology?

A: Yes, NRD is an environmentally friendly technology as it uses natural materials and reduces the need for synthetic additives in asphalt mixtures.

Q: Can NRD be used in other types of construction materials?

A: Yes, NRD can be used in other types of construction materials, such as concrete and cement, to improve their properties and sustainability.

Q: What are the potential economic benefits of using NRD in asphalt mixtures?

A: The potential economic benefits of using NRD in asphalt mixtures include reduced costs due to the use of natural materials, improved durability and lifespan of roads, and increased competitiveness in the construction industry.

Q: What are the potential social benefits of using NRD in asphalt mixtures?

A: The potential social benefits of using NRD in asphalt mixtures include improved road safety, reduced traffic congestion, and enhanced quality of life for communities.

Q: How can I learn more about NRD and its applications?

A: You can learn more about NRD and its applications by consulting the references provided, attending conferences and workshops, and contacting experts in the field.