Production of a nanostructured bitumen modifier in the reprocessing of automobile tires

Introduction. Polymer-bitumen binders are innovative nano-binders for asphalt concrete pavement. Introduction of a polymer modifier improves the characteristics of bitumen and asphalt concrete. The use of waste tires rubber for bitumen modification is considered to be an environmentally friendly solution, but it is limited due to the poor cosite of rubber with bitumen. Various methods based on activation of the rubber surface, dispersion of rubber to nanosized particles, and thermochemical transformations of rubber into individual organic compounds are known to overcome this limitation. Methods and materials. The method of joint pyrolysis of rubber with oxygen-containing oil under pressure is proposed to be used for converting it into a nanostructural bitumen modifier. The resulting product is studied by the methods of thermogravimetry, NMR-spectroscopy, chromatomasspec-trometry, scanning electron microscopy and solubility in toluene. Results and discussion. It has been established that during joint pyrolysis rubber undergoes devulcanization, cracking and dispersion to nanosized particles, and as a result the product becomes compatible with bitumen. Thermochemical reprocessing of waste automobile tires can be considered to be a promising method for the production of a nanostructured bitumen modifier. Conclusion. The use of thermochemical pressure treatment of waste tire rubber in the presence of oxygen-containing oil makes it possible to obtain a nanostructured product compatible with bitumen for further use of the resulting modifier in the production of asphalt concrete.