Bio-Bitumen

Category: Science & Technology / Environment

  • Bio-bitumen is a bio-based binder that can partially substitute conventional petroleum-derived bitumen.
  • CSIR laboratories CSIR-CRRI, New Delhi and CSIR-IIP, Dehradun developed indigenous technology to produce bio-bitumen from agricultural residues.
  • Rice straw/stubble can be converted into bio-oil through pyrolysis.
  • The bio-oil is subsequently chemically upgraded and converted into a bio-binder.
  • Studies indicate that bio-bitumen can potentially replace up to 30% of conventional bitumen without compromising pavement performance.
  • It can help create value from agricultural residue and reduce dependence on petroleum-based materials.

Prelims Pointers: Feedstock → Agricultural residue/rice straw | Key process → Pyrolysis | Institutions → CSIR-CRRI + CSIR-IIP.