Full Extraction Asbuton Bitumen Using Different Organic Solvents for Binder Replacement

Natural asphalt buton or asbuton can be utilized as alternative binder in asphalt mixture by semi-extraction or fully extraction process. Semi-extraction asbuton or called refinery buton asphalt contained of bitumen and mineral asbuton, while full extraction asbuton by using solvent can maximize the content of bitumen and discarded the mineral. However, usage of different solvent influenced the asbuton bitumen properties. Thus, this study evaluated the effect toluene and turpentine on the full extraction asbuton bitumen properties. Four different percentages of solvent content (1–4%) of both turpentine and toluene were used in this study. The asbuton bitumen was then tested for penetration, softening point, flash point, specific gravity, and thin film oven test. Based on the results, 2% solvent either turpentine or toluene is recommended to produce full extraction asbuton bitumen.