This study aims to enhance the performance of asphalt mixes by improving the physical characteristics of bitumen across various temperatures. The focus is on the use of innovative modified bitumen to optimize both fundamental and rheological properties. Bituminous binders are tested with varying additive contents (0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% by binder weight), incorporating iron oxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles (NPs) into Grade (40/60) bitumen. A comprehensive range of testing methods is employed to evaluate the binders, including penetration, ductility, softening point, aging resistance under heat and air exposure, Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR), Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR), and direct tension test. The results demonstrate that the addition of iron oxide and zinc oxide NPs significantly alters the physical behavior of the binders, leading to increased viscosity and improved aging resistance. Notably, the modified bitumen shows an increased softening point and decreased penetration and ductility, indicating a hardening effect, while elastic recovery improves with higher additive percentages, enhancing flexibility. These findings provide valuable insights into the modification of asphalt binder and its impact on the performance of asphalt concrete mixtures, particularly in Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) applications at elevated temperatures, highlighting the novelty of this approach.

This study assesses the feasibility of using high-sulfur residuals from Tawke and Shikhan crude oils as a fuel source for heavy industries. The primary aim was to evaluate its industrial applicability and environmental implications. Petroleum coke, a byproduct obtained via atmospheric and vacuum distillation, was characterized for its high sulfur content, with values ranging from 3.4% for Tawke to 12.5% for Shikhan. Quantitative results from fractional distillation revealed a higher cumulative distillate percentage for Shikhan crude compared to Tawke, with sulfur mass fractions reaching up to 1.1% for the 290°C distillate fraction in Shikhan oil. Despite its potential as a cost-efficient fuel, high-sulfur petroleum coke presents environmental challenges, particularly due to sulfur dioxide emissions, which could lead to air pollution and acid rain. The findings emphasize that proper emission control technologies and stringent regulatory standards are necessary to mitigate these risks. The study further highlights that the high carbon content and calorific value of this coke make it a viable energy source, but environmental trade-offs must be considered. The novelty of this research lies in its detailed analysis of high-sulfur petroleum coke derived from specific Iraqi crude oils, providing valuable insights for industrial applications in sulfur-rich crude-producing regions. The study contributes to the ongoing discussion about alternative fuels in heavy industries, especially in regions reliant on high-sulfur crude oil reserves.

This research aimed to enhance the longevity of local grade 40/50 cement asphalt pavement by incorporating polymer additives polyvinyl acetate (PVAc), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and poly cyanoacrylate (PCA) at varying percentages. The focus was on improving rheological properties to meet Iraqi road and bridge construction standards, specifica lly the post thin film oven test (RTFO). The novelty lies in the limited exploration of PCA polymer application s in asphalt. Two scenarios were employed: one with both sulfur and catalyst anhydrous aluminum chloride (AlCl3) and the other with only the ca talyst, excluding sulfur. Microwave radiation (360 watts ) for different durations (5, 10, and 15 minutes) was utilized. Various tests evaluated physical, chemical, and aging properties, revealing that while indigenous grade 40/50 asphalt initially met rheol ogical standards, it failed post RTFO, with PMMA showing no improvement. In contrast, both PVAc and PCA exhibited enhanced rheological properties. The combination of 0.5% of all polymers with microwave treatment resulted in significant improvement, with th e best outcomes observed using PCA polymer without sulfur. This study underscores the effectiveness of incorporating PCA without sulfur, addressing the gap in existing research. Rigorous examination of physical, chemical, and aging properties validated the improvements in asphalt performance, highlighting PCA's potential as a valuable polymer additive for pavement enhancement.