Glycerol‐Derived Polyester: Its Application in Bitumen Modification With Exploration of Monomer Synergies Using Ridge‐Regularized Regression

ABSTRACT Glycerol, a by‐product of biodiesel production, holds significant potential as a valuable monomeric unit for developing sustainable materials and applications. The utilization of glycerol can reduce waste and encourage innovative solutions across various industries. In this study, glycerol‐based polyesters were synthesized using glycerol, maleic anhydride, and phthalic anhydride at various monomer ratios and polymerization times (2–4 h). The resulting polyesters were characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). After confirming successful synthesis, polyesters were blended with VG10 bitumen at weight percentages of 4%, 6%, and 8% to obtain modified bitumen, which was then evaluated for softening point, penetration, kinematic viscosity, penetration index (PI), and ductility. Results revealed significant improvements in the physical properties of VG10 bitumen, with the SP increasing from 38°C to 50°C, the PEN decreasing from 100 to 39 dmm, and KV rising from 396 to 686 cSt. Apart from this, a Ridge‐Regularized Quadratic Polynomial Regression Model (RRQPR) was used to explore the interaction effects of monomers on bitumen properties. This analysis demonstrated the synergistic effects between the monomers that enhanced the modified bitumen's performance, improving stability under load and reducing temperature susceptibility. Further rheological study demonstrated that polyester blending significantly enhanced rheological properties.