The widespread use of traditional bitumen, derived from finite crude oil resources, has led to growing concerns over its environmental impact, long-term availability, and cost. These challenges underscore the urgent need for sustainable, alternative binders in infrastructure applications such as road construction. Although previous research has explored bio-based and recycled waste materials as potential substitutes, these alternatives often fail to meet compatibility, durability, and performance standards.

To overcome these obstacles, this study employs a multifaceted methodology encompassing rheological, chemical, and mechanical analyses, along with environmental assessments. The objective is to develop an alternative binder synthesized from bio-based and waste materials that offers comparable or improved durability and performance. Our findings suggest that the alternative binder presents a viable replacement for traditional, petroleum-based bitumen. This innovation not only enhances the sustainability and circularity of road materials but also mitigates the construction industry's dependence on non-renewable oil resources.

This master's thesis addresses a critical gap in the field of road construction by focusing on the limitations of Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene modified bitumen (SBS-MB), a widely-used binder. While SBS-MB offers superior performance, its long-term efficacy is compromised due to various aging processes. Existing rejuvenators are insufficient for restoring the binder's original properties. To remedy this, our research introduces an innovative rejuvenator that provides a more comprehensive restoration of SBS-MB, especially in the reconstruction of the polymer network. The study employs a multifaceted evaluation approach, leading to an enhanced understanding of the rejuvenator's effectiveness and mechanisms of action. Furthermore, we validate the rejuvenator's efficacy using real-world, field-collected materials. The findings not only offer a more effective method for restoring aged SBS-MB but also hold promise for improving the recyclability of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP), potentially leading to more sustainable road construction practices, particularly in the Netherlands.