Suppressing the Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfur Dioxide Emission from Sulfur-Bituminous Concrete

Abstract:

There are numerous advantages of building materials based on sulfur-bituminous binder. Using the sulfur-bituminous concretes in road construction leads to improved quality of pavements. In particular, there is an increase of resistance to rutting when extending the bituminous concretes with sulfur. The well-known difficulty limiting the widespread practical use of the sulfur-bituminous concretes is the emission of toxic gases – hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide – which are formed during the manufacture and installation of sulfur-bituminous concrete. The present paper is devoted to the said problem. The survey of processes occurring in sulfur-bituminous mixtures is carried out. This allowed us to select most prospective suppressors for toxic gases emitted during the production and laying of sulfur-bituminous concrete. Series of laboratory tests are made to proof our choice. The results of tests confirm that oxides of amphoteric metals neutralizers are effective suppressors for hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide, while carbon only slightly reduces the emissions. The emission is primarily depends on temperature and water content. Therefore, we recommend not to exceed 145 °C during the production and laying. Components for asphalt must be dehydrated, and sulfur must be degassed. If these requirements are met, than production process of sulfur-bituminous concrete will meet the safety requirements.

References

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