Груповий склад бітумів як основа їх температурних властивостей

Abstract. Problem. The temperature characteristics of bitumens (softening and brittleness temperatures) significantly affect their suitability for use in road construction and other industries. However, the quantitative relationship between the group composition of bitumens and their temperature properties is insufficiently studied, making it challenging to predict these characteristics. Goal. To develop a method for determining the softening and brittleness temperatures of bitumens based on their group composition, considering the contributions of components (asphaltenes, resins, and oils) to the formation of temperature characteristics, and to verify its applicability to different types of bitumens. Methodology. The study is based on the principle of Gordon-Taylor additivity for copolymers. Experimental data on the softening and brittleness temperatures of bitumen components and their group composition were used. Calculations were performed for bitumens of various structural types (sol, sol-gel, gel), including analysis of literature data and experimental measurements. Results. The proposed method confirmed the feasibility of quantitatively determining the softening and brittleness temperatures of bitumens based on their group composition. It was established that asphaltenes significantly increase both temperatures, resins predominantly affect the softening temperature, and oils contribute to lowering the brittleness temperature. The method showed high consistency of results for sol and sol-gel type bitumens but limited applicability for bitumens with a high penetration index. Originality. The proposed method has been adapted for bitumens, taking into account their unique group components. Unlike existing empirical approaches, this method allows for a quantitative assessment of each component’s contribution to the temperature characteristics of bitumens, providing greater accuracy and universality. The study also systematically addresses, for the first time, the impact of the compatibility of bitumen components on its structural type and temperature characteristics. Practical value. The developed method enables the prediction of bitumens' temperature characteristics based on their composition, which is useful for optimizing production technologies, selecting raw materials, and quality control. It also enhances understanding of bitumen aging processes and their performance during use.