The Physical and Thermal Characteristics of Waste Latex Rubber Gloves-Modified Bitumen

This study investigates the effects of waste latex rubber gloves (WLRG) on bitumen's physical and thermal characteristics. The study modifies 60/70 penetration grade bitumen with varying percentages of 3%, 5%, 7%, and 9% of WLRG in high shear mixer at 150 degrees C to determine the appropriate WLRG percentage for achieving the required specifications based on the penetration, softening point, and ductility tests. This study also performs thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to analyse the thermal characteristics of WLRG particles in the modified bitumen. The TGA graph showed that the mass loss of 3, 5, 7, and 9% WLRG-modified bitumen occurred at 457.5, 464.3, 462.2, and 459.5 degrees C. The DSC graph reveals the melting point for the binders modified with 3, 5, 7, and 9% WLRG are 133.6, 132.1, 103.5, and 133.2 degrees C. The results show that the optimum WLRG-modified bitumen is 5 and 7% by weight of bitumen. Asphalt pavements modified with 5 and 7% WLRG showed maximum benefits and the ability to prevent road surface deformation, including when subjected to high traffic loads. In conclusion, WLRG is a suitable bitumen modifier because it enhances bitumen's characteristics and performance.