Effect of bio-oil from empty fruit bunch on penetration index of asphalt binder

Abstract

Bio-oil which is derived from pyrolysis palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) is expected to be a potential alternative modifier for asphalt. This study focused on the effect of bio-oil on the penetration index (PI) asphalt. Bio-oil is blended between 2%-10% by weight of virgin asphalt penetration grade 80/100. Physical properties are measured and compared with virgin asphalt by the conventional physical binder test – softening point and penetration. The penetration index (PI) values is calculated to identify the typical values of asphalt type. Based on the findings, it was found that increased bio-oil content can effectively soften the asphalt at the same time maintain the temperature susceptibility. Modification asphalt is still within the grade 80/100 PEN with the addition of 10% maximum of bio oil. The stiffness of modified asphalt need to be further improved by addition polymer for better asphalt binder properties.