In the quest for sustainable and cost-effective solutions in the construction industry, a groundbreaking study has emerged from the Faculty of Civil Engineering at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Led by Hadi Zghair Chfat, a researcher in the Department of Geotechnics and Transportation, the study explores the potential of eggshell powder as a modifier for bitumen, a non-renewable resource crucial in road construction and maintenance.
Bitumen, a viscous, black, and highly viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum, is essential for binding aggregates in road construction. However, its rising global demand and subsequent increased costs have prompted researchers to seek sustainable alternatives. Chfat’s research, published in the journal Green Technologies and Sustainability, translates to Green Technologies and Sustainable Development, offers a promising solution by utilizing waste materials, specifically eggshell powder, to modify bitumen.
The study investigates the impact of micro-sized (ESP) and nano-sized (NESP) eggshell powder on the physical and rheological properties of bitumen. By incorporating ESP and NESP at varying concentrations (0%, 5%, 7%, and 9% by weight), Chfat and his team aimed to identify the most effective option for enhancing bitumen’s performance.
The results are compelling. Both ESP and NESP demonstrated improvements in key properties. “Adding eggshell powder, whether micro or nano-sized, reduces penetration, increases softening point and viscosity, and decreases ductility,” Chfat explains. This means that the modified bitumen becomes less prone to deformation under heavy loads and high temperatures, a critical factor in road construction, especially in regions with extreme weather conditions.
However, NESP showed superior performance, particularly in storage stability and mass loss at high temperatures. The dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) test further revealed that the rutting parameter, which indicates a material’s resistance to permanent deformation, increased with higher concentrations of ESP and NESP. Notably, a 9% concentration of NESP proved to be the most effective in enhancing bitumen’s properties.
The implications of this research are significant for the energy and construction sectors. By utilizing eggshell waste, a readily available and low-cost material, the study offers a sustainable and economical solution to the challenges posed by the rising demand for bitumen. This innovation could lead to reduced costs in road construction and maintenance, contributing to more resilient and durable infrastructure.
Moreover, the use of eggshell powder as a bitumen modifier aligns with the growing trend towards circular economy principles, where waste materials are repurposed to create value. This approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also opens up new avenues for waste management in the food industry.
As the construction industry continues to seek sustainable solutions, Chfat’s research paves the way for future developments in bitumen modification. The study’s findings suggest that other waste materials could potentially be explored for similar applications, further driving innovation in the field.
In an era where sustainability and cost-effectiveness are paramount, Chfat’s work offers a glimpse into the future of construction materials. By harnessing the power of waste, the industry can strive towards a more sustainable and resilient built environment. The research, published in Green Technologies and Sustainable Development, underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing global challenges and driving innovation in the construction sector.
