Physical and Rheological Properties of Coconut Waste Modified Bitumen

Numerous modifications have been made to bitumen to improve its durability and performance. This study aims to enhance bitumen by evaluating the physical and rheological properties of bitumen modified with coconut waste. The study develops bitumen samples modified with varying lengths and fiber content of coconut waste as a sustainable material. The samples were evaluated for rheological behavior using modern testing methods like the Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) and Rolling Thin Film Oven (RTFO). F indings shows the penetration value decrease and the softening point increase with higher coconut waste content, suggesting the modified bitumen is more prone to deformation. The complex modulus G* increase significantly to 3872Pa for the 1% coconut fiber modified bitumen and 9771Pa for 1% coconut powder modified bitumen as compared to the control sample (3431Pa), indicating prospective higher resistance to rutting. In conclusion, modified with coconut waste, bitumen exhibits enhanced flexibility and reduced susceptibility to temperature-related issues. Unlike conventional bitumen, which often suffers from rutting and thermal cracking, this modified version shows improved resistance against shear stresses at elevated temperatures and retains greater flexibility in colder conditions.