The construction sector is on the brink of a significant transformation, thanks to innovative research exploring the use of waste engine oil (WEO) as a sustainable solution for asphalt rejuvenation and modification. As road infrastructure continues to expand globally, the demand for asphalt binder has surged, presenting both environmental and economic challenges. Raza Mehmood, a researcher from the Department of Civil Engineering at Universiti Putra Malaysia, leads a study published in ‘Heliyon’ that dives deep into how WEO can be utilized to enhance the performance of asphalt binders.
As roads undergo wear and tear from vehicular loads and environmental exposure, asphalt binders often suffer from hardening and aging, leading to premature failures. Mehmood’s research highlights the potential of WEO to rejuvenate aged asphalt, offering a cost-effective alternative that could reshape how the industry approaches road maintenance. “The inclusion of waste engine oil as an asphalt modifier significantly affects the high-temperature properties of the modified binder, while also enhancing lower temperature properties,” Mehmood explains. This dual benefit not only improves the thermal and fatigue resistance of asphalt but also addresses the pressing issue of waste management.
The findings reveal that the amount of WEO required for effective rejuvenation varies based on the characteristics of the asphalt. Interestingly, the study indicates that incorporating additional materials like lignin, styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS), polyphosphoric acid, and crumb rubber can enhance the properties of WEO-modified asphalt even further. This composite modification approach could allow for a partial substitution of 8–15% of traditional asphalt binder, paving the way for more sustainable construction practices in the pavement industry.
The commercial implications of this research are profound. By utilizing WEO, construction companies could reduce costs associated with asphalt production while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns related to waste disposal. The potential for recycling used oil into a valuable construction material not only promotes sustainability but also offers a competitive edge in a market increasingly focused on eco-friendly practices.
Mehmood’s work represents a significant step forward in asphalt technology, yet he acknowledges that further research is essential. “Additional studies are necessary to explore futuristic advancements in WEO modification technology,” he notes, emphasizing the need for ongoing innovation in the field.
As the construction industry grapples with sustainability challenges, the integration of waste materials like engine oil into asphalt production could herald a new era of eco-conscious infrastructure development. With research like Mehmood’s leading the charge, the future of road construction looks not only more sustainable but also more economically viable. For more information on this groundbreaking research, visit lead_author_affiliation.