Optimization of laboratory preparation of the emulsified bioasphalt with two emulsifiers

The goal of this study was to optimize emulsified bioasphalt (a mix of bio-oil and petroleum asphalt) performance by investigating the effects of various bio-oil dosages and emulsifier types and dosages. A colloid mill with high-speed rotation was used to emulsify the bioasphalt at 100°C. The single variable theory of analysis was adopted to analyze the influence of bio-oil and emulsifier on the performance of emulsified bioasphalt. Two types of emulsifiers were used: Shanghai Yuanrong-type (SY-type) and Meadwestvaco-type (MD-type). Five bio-oil contents were selected to produce the bioasphalt: 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 %. Five emulsifier dosages were applied for the bioasphalt emulsification: 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 %. Properties were evaluated by a series of tests, including the remaining amount of evaporation residue, penetration, softening point, ductility, viscosity, and storage stability. Based upon these test results, a 55:45 water-oil ratio, 15–20 % bio-oil content, and 3.5 % SY-type or 3.0 % MD-type emulsifier dosage is recommended.