Organic Compounds Evaluation from Fumes Generated in Laboratory by Bio-recycled Asphalt Mixtures

Using bio-binder and bio-additives as recycling agents for asphalt mixtures with high-content of reclaimed asphalt (RA) is proving to be feasible. It is still not clear whether this combination might provide new hazardous emissions from airborne binder fumes. The health hazard related to airborne bitumen fume generation is primarily relevant for paving crews while there is little opportunity for exposure related to asphalt plant workers. In this study, measurements of gaseous organic compounds from airborne binder fumes of selected bio-asphalt mixtures have been measured during the laboratory mixing process, by using a thermo-mixer equipped with a chimney at University Gustave Eiffel. Parameters studied are the binder nature, mix formula and mixing temperatures. Results show that generally combining bio-based materials and RA is as safe as using conventional bitumen and RA, however thanks to this approach it was possible to identify a strong link between bituminous material composition and their emission potential