The government will allow the mixing of bio-bitumen up to 35% in petroleum-based bitumen, a large part of which is imported from other countries.
What Is bio-bitumen?
- Bio-bitumen is a petroleum-free alternative to traditional bitumen, known as asphalt.
- It is made from non-petroleum-based renewable resources.
- These resources include vegetable oils, synthetic polymers, crop stubble, algae, lignin (a component of wood), and even animal manure.
How is bio-bitumen made?
- Bio-bitumen is produced by heating waste mixtures at approximately 500°C in an oxygen-free environment through a process known as pyrolysis.
- It is similar to how charcoal and biochar are made.
- The primary component used in its production is lignins from plant cell walls, which, when mixed with other polymers such as bitumen and sulfur, form a binding agent used in making bio-asphalt.
What are the applications of bio-bitumen?
Bio-bitumen can be utilized in various applications within the construction industry:
- As a direct replacement for petroleum bitumen in asphalt.
- As a modifier to improve the properties of traditional bitumen.
- As a rejuvenator to restore the elasticity and functionality of aged asphalt pavements.
What are the benefits of bio-bitumen?
Bio-bitumen offers several advantages over traditional asphalt:
- It is environmentally friendly as it does not utilize petroleum products in its production.
- It is free from toxic chemicals, enhancing safety for both workers and the environment.
- Potential sources for bio-bitumen include organic parts of household waste like food waste, plastics, paper, and textiles, which can be converted into a liquid with similar properties to current bio-bitumen products.
What is bitumen?
- Bitumen is a black, viscous byproduct derived from distilling crude oil.
- It is composed of complex hydrocarbons, which include elements such as calcium, iron, sulfur, and oxygen.
- The source and type of crude oil significantly influence its quality and ease of production.
- It is known for its strong adhesive properties.
- Its common applications include making roads and waterproofing projects.
Bitumen in India:
- India imports about half of its annual bitumen needs, totalling 3.21 million tonnes for the fiscal year 2023-24, while domestic production is at 5.24 million tonnes.
- The country’s bitumen consumption has been on the rise, with an average annual usage of 7.7 million tonnes over the last five years.
- Construction of national highways reached approximately 12,300 km in 2023-24, translating to about 34 km per day.
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Frequently Asked Question:
What is the second name of asphalt?
The second name of asphalt is also known as bitumen.
What is asphalt called in India?
In India, asphalt is commonly referred to as bitumen.
What is bio-bitumen made of?
Bio-bitumen is produced using organic materials, typically involving plant-based byproducts like lignin or vegetable oils, to create an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional bitumen.
What is the meaning of bio-asphalt?
Bio-asphalt refers to a type of asphalt made using renewable, bio-based materials, emphasizing sustainability in its production.
Is bitumen a biofuel?
No, bitumen is not considered a biofuel. It is primarily used as a binder in asphalt for construction and paving applications.
What is a biobinder?
A biobinder is a binding agent made from biological materials, used in the construction industry to enhance the environmental sustainability of asphalt and other building materials.