Use of Biochar as a Highly Effective Asphalt Binder-Modifier

The Problem:

Growing concerns over declining fossil fuel reserves, increased greenhouse gas production, and higher energy costs has led to increased efforts toward generating energy and fuels through renewable organic matter, such as bio-oil derived from pyrolysis. However, the biochar coproduct of pyrolysis is underutilized.

The Solution:

Researchers at the University of Tennessee have developed a novel asphalt binder modifier using the biochar coproduct of pyrolysis. Compared to commercially available activated carbon, such as carbon black and carbon fiber, this switchgrass-derived biomodifier exhibits improved temperature susceptibility of the binder and increased rutting, moisture, and cracking resistance of the paving asphalt. Moreover, the results from the tested parameters meet most U.S. Department of Transportation’s specifications used for standard asphalt binders.

Zhao, Sheng et Al. "Utilizing bio-char as bio-modifier for asphalt cement: A sustainable application of bio-fuel by-product." Fuel 133 (2014): 53-62. 

Benefits:

• Viable use of pyrolysis coproduct to make high-end binder modifier
• Improves performance compared to commercially available activated carbon
• Reduces temperature susceptibility
• Minimizes effects of long-term aging
• Easily incorporated into existing systems
• More environmentally friendly

Application:

• Asphalt binder modifiers

Patent:

• US9481793

Additional Technology Information (link): Frequently Asked Q&A

The Inventors: 

Dr. Baoshan Huang is the Edwin G. Burdette Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Tennessee.  He received his Ph.D. in civil engineering from Louisiana State University and his M.S. and B.S. degrees from Tongji University in Shanghai, China.  Dr. Huang joined UT after working with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development as a senior research engineer.  Furthermore, Dr. Huang's professional career has been devoted to geo-technical and pavement engineering.

Dr. Philip Ye is a professor in the Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science Department at the University of Tennessee.  His research focuses on the interface between biological systems and engineering processes to enhance the conversion of bio-renewables into energy, chemicals, and materials.  Dr. Ye received his M.S. in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering from South Dakota State University, and his Ph.D. in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering from the University of Minnesota.