SULFUR POLYMER SYNTHESIS TECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE THE PROPERTIES OF ASPHALT PAVEMENTS BASED ON LOCAL SULFUR

Аннотация

The increasing demand for durable, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable road construction materials has driven growing interest in alternative asphalt modification technologies. One promising approach is the utilization of sulfur polymers synthesized from locally available elemental sulfur to enhance the performance of asphalt pavements. Sulfur, often produced as a by-product of oil and gas refining, represents an abundant and underutilized resource in many regions. This paper presents a comprehensive review of sulfur polymer synthesis technology and its application in asphalt modification. The chemical principles of sulfur polymerization, production methods, and mechanisms of interaction with asphalt binders are discussed. Emphasis is placed on improvements in mechanical strength, thermal stability, rutting resistance, and aging performance of asphalt pavements. Economic and environmental benefits of using local sulfur resources are also evaluated, highlighting the potential of sulfur polymer–modified asphalt as a sustainable solution for modern road infrastructure.