Enhancing Energy Efficiency: Exploring Natural Zeolite Addition to Pure Asbuton B 50/30 Mixture – Insights from SEM-EDX and FTIR Chemical Characterization

This study introduces a novel approach to leverage Asbuton analytical properties by exploring its compatibility with a warm mixture of LTBA (thin layer asphalt concrete), supplemented with natural zeolite additives to lower the mixing temperature. The research focuses on assessing the characteristics of pure Asbuton B 50/30 and Marshall features, ensuring compliance with specifications. Various levels of natural zeolite additions to the warm mixture are tested at an optimum asphalt content of 5.95%. Results indicate that incorporating 1.5% natural zeolite yields properties meeting specification requirements: stability = 1179.564 kg; VIM = 4.252 %; VMA = 17.076 %; flow = 2,870 mm; VFA = 75.099%; and MQ = 410.998 kg/mm. Moreover, the mixing and compaction temperature with natural zeolite addition aligns with specifications at 145 ℃. SEM-EDX analysis reveals carbon compounds (C) as the primary component of Asbuton B 50/30, constituting 43.44% of its composition, while its porous nature renders it with fragile morphological characteristics. The incorporation of natural zeolite effectively reduces the mixing temperature of the Asbuton mixture, showcasing promising avenues for enhanced efficiency.