The viscoelastic properties of bitumen make it an essential element in the composition of asphalt. Since the early 2000s, bitumen additives have been used to improve the mechanical performance of asphalt and prevent premature wear of road surfacings.
This has led to the development and use in Québec for more than 10 years of a strip-resistant bitumen made with polyamine additives. This bitumen has improved adhesion properties. However, little research has been conducted to characterize the chemical emissions during asphalting.
The purpose of this study was to characterize the fumes emitted at asphalting temperature by bitumen with polyamine antistripping additives and by bitumen without these additives and to compare the emissions profiles for identification of chemical irritants or sensitizers in the bitumen with the antistripping additives. The researchers also wanted to develop an air-sampling and laboratory analysis method for these substances.
The knowledge acquired will make it possible to assess the risk of irritation associated with emissions of substances derived from using polyamine additives in strip-resistant bitumen.