Infrastructure in the Age of Pandemics: Utilizing Polypropylene-Based Mask Waste for Durable and Sustainable Road Pavements.

When navigating the environmental exigencies precipitated by global pandemics, the escalation of mask waste presents a multifaceted dilemma. In this avant-garde research, we unveil a novel approach: harnessing the sterilized shredded mask residues (SMRs), predominantly composed of 100 wt. % polypropylene, as pioneering modifiers for asphalt. Distinct proportions of SMR (e.g., 3, 6, and 9 wt. %) were judiciously integrated with fresh-virgin base AP-5 asphalt and subjected to an extensive suite of state-of-the-art examinations, encompassing thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and specific rheological metrics. The TLC-FID diagnostic trajectories highlighted the nuanced rejuvenating influence of SMR on the binder, a facet reinforced by a pronounced elevation in the thermodynamic stability index (IC). The FT-IR spectra elucidated SMR's preeminent role as a filler, negating notions of chemical reactivity. The TGA analyses unveiled an elevated thermal onset of degradation, signposting enhanced thermal resilience, whereas the DSC readings illuminated a superior thermal comportment at lower extremities. The SEM evaluations rendered a clearer panorama: there was heightened textural perturbation at escalated SMR incorporations, yet the 3 wt. % concoction showcased an optimal, coherent microtexture symbiosis with asphalt. The rheological scrutinies revealed a systematic trajectory: a diminishing penetration and ductility countered by ascending softening points and viscosity metrics. The coup de maître stemmed from the DSR analyses, unequivocally validating SMR's unparalleled prowess in curtailing rutting distress. This seminal inquiry not only posits a blueprint for refined pavement longevity but also champions a sustainable countermeasure to pandemic-propelled waste, epitomizing the confluence of environmental prudence an d infrastructural fortitude.

From Hive to Highway: Waste Honeycombs as a Sustainable Modifier for Asphalt Binder Formulations in South Korea.

Navigating the crossroads of sustainable infrastructure and innovative waste management, this research unveils the potential of waste honeycombs (WHCs)-an overlooked byproduct of apiculture-as a potent modifier for asphalt binder formulations. This endeavor addresses the dual challenge of enhancing road pavement sustainability and mitigating environmental degradation. A meticulous methodology evaluated the impact of varying WHC concentrations (5, 10, and 15 wt.%) on the asphalt binder, examining its attributes pre- and post-aging. Employing an array of analytical tools-thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID); Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR); scanning electron microscopy (SEM); thermogravimetric analysis (TGA); and a suite of conventional tests such as penetration, softening point, viscosity, ductility, dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), and multiple stress-creep recovery (MSCR)-provided a comprehensive insight into the binder's behavior. TLC-FID analyses revealed that WHC, with its 92 wt.% resin content, altered the SARA profile across distinct aging conditions, notably reducing asphaltene content, a factor linked to binder stiffness. The colloidal instability index (IC) further attested to this, pointing to a more thermodynamically stable system with WHC's inclusion. Meanwhile, FT-IR confirmed a physical interaction between WHC and asphalt without introducing new chemical entities. SEM observations highlighted the superior miscibility of WHC with asphalt, evidenced by a unique microtexture. With marked precision, TGA assessments unveiled a bolstering of asphalt's inherent thermal resilience consequent to a minor WHC integration. From the conventional tests, shifts in penetration, softening point, and viscosity were observed, with reduced viscosity, indicating improved workability. Lastly, while rutting potential was sensitive to WHC concentrations, fatigue resistance notably heightened with minor to moderate WHC inclusions. In essence, this pioneering study advocates for WHC's integration into asphalt formulations, offering enhanced road performance coupled with sustainable waste utilization. The findings underscore the synergy between environmental stewardship and infrastructural advancement.

Upcycling Discarded Shoe Polish into High Value-Added Asphalt Fluxing Agent for Use in Hot Mix Paving Applications.

This research effort is geared towards revealing the latent potential of discarded shoe polish that might be repurposed as an asphalt fluxing agent for the construction of durable and sustainable road surfaces. To drive this creative invention, the effect of various proportions of waste shoe polish (e.g., 5, 10 and 15 wt. % WSP) on the performance of base AP-5 bitumen was inspected in great detail. A meticulous investigation of the chemical, physical, and rheological properties of the resultant combinations was carried out using a variety of state-of-the-art laboratory techniques, specifically: thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), needle penetration, ring-and-ball softening point, Brookfield viscometer, ductility, flash/fire points, dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), multiple stress-creep recovery (MSCR), and bending beam rheometer (BBR) tests. The Iatroscan data disclosed that the continuous feeding of binder with WSP had a minor impact on SARA fractional distribution, regardless of aging. According to the FT-IR scan, the stepwise addition of WSP to the binder did not result in any significant chemical alterations in the blends. The combined outcomes of the DSR/BBR/empirical test methods forecasted that the partly bio-sourced additive would greatly improve the mixing-compaction temperatures, workability, and coating-adhesion properties of bituminous mixtures while imparting them with outstanding anti-aging/cracking attributes. In short, the utilization of waste shoe polish as a fluxing agent for hot asphalt mix production and application is not only safe, feasible, and affordable, but it has the potential to abate the pollution caused by the shoe-care market while simultaneously enhancing the overall performance of the pavement and extending its service lifespan.

Unlocking the Hidden Potential of Cosmetics Waste for Building Sustainable Green Pavements in the Future: A Case Study of Discarded Lipsticks.

This investigation is dedicated to unlocking the hidden potential of discarded cosmetics towards building green sustainable road pavements in the future. It is particularly aiming at exploring waste lipstick (WLS) as a high-quality functional additive for advanced asphalt mix technologies. To fuel this novel innovation, the effect of various WLS doses (e.g., 5, 10, and 15 wt.%) on the performance of base AP-5 asphalt cement was studied in detail. A wide array of cutting-edge analytical lab techniques was employed to inspect in-depth the physicochemical, microstructural, thermo-morphological, and rheological properties of resultant admixtures including: elemental analysis, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), needle penetration, ring and ball softening point, Brookfield viscometer, ductility, and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests. Unlike the unstable response of asphaltenes, the additive/artificial aging treatments increased the fraction of resins the most, and decreased that of aromatics; however, asphaltenes did not impair the saturates portion, according to Iatroscan research. FT-IR scan divulged that the WLS-asphalt interaction was physical rather than chemical. XRD diagnosis not only revealed an obvious correlation between the asphaltenes content and the fresh-binder crystallinity but also revealed the presence of fillers in the WLS, which may generate outstanding technical qualities to bituminous mixes. According to AFM/SEM analyses, the stepwise incorporation of WLS grew the magnitude of the "bee-shaped" microstructures and extended the roughness rate of unaged/aged binders. The prolonged consumption of the high thermal-stable additive caused a remarkable drop in the onset degradation and glass transition temperature of mixtures, thus enhancing their workability and low-temperature performance, according to TGA/DTGA/DSC data. The DSR and empirical rheological experiments demonstrated that the WLS could effectively lower the manufacturing and compaction temperatures of asphalt mixes and impart them with valuable anti-aging/fatigue-cracking assets. In a nutshell, the use of waste lipstick as an asphalt modifier is viable and cost-effective and could attenuate the pollution arisen from the beauty sector, while improving the performance of hot/warm asphalt mixes (HAM/WAM) and extending the service life of roadways.

Spent Graphite from End-of-Life Lithium-Ion Batteries (LIBs) as a Promising Nanoadditive to Boost Road Pavement Performance.

To take swift action towards tackling the global pollution crisis of discarded lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) while reinforcing road structures, this investigation was undertaken. The influence of various proportions of spent graphite (e.g., 5, 10, and 15 wt.% SG), harvested from end-of-life LIBs, on the performance of base AP-5 asphalt cement was studied. Multiple laboratory techniques have been employed to characterize the internal physiochemical interaction between the additive and the binder. These techniques include: elemental analysis (EA), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), empirical test methods (e.g., penetration, softening point, viscosity, and ductility), dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), and multiple stress-creep recovery (MSCR). Prior to aging, SARA analysis demonstrated that the incremental SG addition into the AP-5 bitumen reduced the contents of saturates, aromatics, and resins, and increased the proportion of asphaltenes. After aging, the saturated and aromatic hydrocarbons kept decreasing; however, the resins increased and the asphaltenes declined. Accordingly, this has brought a progressive shift tendency in the stable-colloidal system for all binders from sol-state towards sol-gel-state. FT-IR scan revealed that the SG has no apparent chemical interaction with the binder, and is endowed solely with filling effects. XRD diagnosis highlighted that the steady SG incorporation into the binder amplified its crystallinity; thereby boosting the thermomechanical properties of mastics. SEM imaging unveiled that the lower-dose of SG exhibited higher compatibility within the bitumen matrix; nevertheless, the intermediate/higher-doses made the binder body relatively rougher. DSR/MSCR/conventional tests indicated that when the asphalt is blended with the graphitic powder under unaged/aged conditions, it becomes stiffer, more viscous, and less cohesive; thereby rendering it more resistant to deformation but not to cracking. In summary, it is promisingly proven that the SG could be successfully used as an asphalt additive and could be beneficial for improving paving performance and mitigating the pollution caused by dead LIBs as well.

From Street to Road: An Innovative Approach to Explore Discarded Chewing Gum as a Performance-Enhancing Modifier for Road Pavement Applications.

To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modifier for road pavement applications, its influence on the asphalt binder's attributes was profoundly examined. The base AP-5 asphalt along with its specimens dosed with various fractions of DCG (e.g., 3, 6, and 9 wt%) were analyzed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Brookfield viscometer, ring and ball softening point, needle penetration, and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests were adopted to inspect the physical and rheological changes of asphalt cement after DCG incorporation. FT-IR disclosed that the asphalt-gum interaction was not chemical but physical in nature, whilst XRD demonstrated the existence of talc filler in DCG, which may confer the bituminous mixes with exceptional engineering properties. Iatroscan analysis evinced that the gum treatment particularly altered the aromatic and resin fractions; meanwhile, the content of saturates and asphaltenes remained relatively unchanged. SEM divulged that the DCG has a complete dissolution within the bitumen matrix, which becomes rougher due to higher dose administration. AFM revealed that the steady gum introduction amplified the size of bee-like structures, shrunk their peri-phase domains, and wiped out the para-phase domains entirely. TGA/DTGA/DSC data highlighted that the high-temperature-stable additive slightly affected the thermal properties of blends. DSR and empirical rheological tests showed that the waste gum made the bitumen less vulnerable to heat and tender, thereby boosting its resistance against fatigue cracking at intermediate service temperatures. On top of that, DCG widened the thermal window of bitumen performance grade (PG), and preserved its viscosity at standard temperatures, leading to maintaining an appropriate workability for asphalt mix. In brief, the use of discarded chewing gum as an asphalt modifier is feasible and could mitigate plastic pollution and provide durable roadways by delivering superior performance.

Towards the Use of Waste Pig Fat as a Novel Potential Bio-Based Rejuvenator for Recycled Asphalt Pavement.

This article presents a novel potential bio-based rejuvenator derived from waste pig fat (WPF) for use in recycled asphalt applications. To achieve this purpose, the impact of different doses waste pig fat (e.g., 0, 3, 6, and 9 wt.% WPF) on the reclaimed asphalt pavement binder (RAP-B) performance is investigated. The unmodified and WPF-modified asphalts are characterized by means of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Physico-rheological properties of asphalt blends are assessed through Brookfield viscometer, softening point, penetration, and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests. TLC-FID data highlighted that incremental WPF addition into RAP-B restored its original balance maltenes-to-asphaltenes ratio; finding which was supported by FT-IR analysis. SEM disclosed that WPF has a great compatibility with the aged asphalt. AFM observations showed that grease treatment induced a decline in surface roughness (i.e., bee structures) and a rise in friction force (i.e., para-phase dimension) of RAP binder. TGA/DSC studies revealed that the bio-modifier not only possesses an excellent thermal stability but also can substantially enhance the binder low-temperature performance. Empirical and DSR tests demonstrated that WPF improved the low-temperature performance grade of RAP-B, reduced its mixing and compaction temperatures, and noticeably boosted its fatigue cracking resistance. The rejuvenation of aged asphalt employing WPF is feasible and can be an ideal approach to recycle both of RAP and waste pig fats.

New research highlights: Impact of chronic ingestion of white kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L. var. Beldia) on small-intestinal disaccharidase activity in Wistar rats.

The chronic ingestion of raw or undercooked kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is involved in the pathogenesis of multiple organ dysfunction; the underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood. The objective of this study was to assess the gavage effects of a raw Beldia bean variety on the brush border disaccharidase activities in the jejunal mucosa of Wistar rats. Twenty young adult male rats were randomly assigned into 2 groups of 10 rats each: Control, rats were gavaged with 300 mg of a rodent pellet flour suspension (RPFS); Experimental, rats were orogastrically fed a dose of 300 mg Beldia bean flour suspension (BBFS). Prior to determining the disaccharidase activity by Dahlqvist method, the blood and stool specimens were collected on day 10. The sera and feces were screened for the presence of lectins by serologic and hemagglutination assays. The results showed that the brush border maltase and sucrase activities were significantly diminished but lactase activity did not undergo any change in BBFS-gavaged animals as compared with control. Preliminary immunobiochemical assays revealed the absence of lectins in the systemic circulation and feces of rats, but further work is required to prove this. Overall, the dietary administration of BBFS caused depression of the activity of the small intestinal enzymes maltase and sucrase.

An In-Depth Investigation into the Physicochemical, Thermal, Microstructural, and Rheological Properties of Petroleum and Natural Asphalts.

Over the last decade, unexpected and sudden pavement failures have occurred in several provinces in South Korea. Some of these failures remain unexplained, further illustrating the gaps in our knowledge about binder chemistry. To prevent premature pavement distress and enhance road performance, it is imperative to provide an adequate characterization of asphalt. For this purpose, the current research aims at inspecting the chemistry, microstructure, thermal, and physico-rheological properties of two types of asphalt, namely petroleum asphalt (PA) and natural asphalt (NA). The binders were extensively investigated by using elemental analysis, thin-layer chromatography with flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-fight mass spectroscopy (MALDI-TOF-MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy (RS), Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (¹H-NMR), ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), penetration, softening point, ductility, and viscosity tests. The findings of this research have revealed the distinct variations between the chemical compositions, microstructures, and thermo-rheological properties of the two asphalts and provided valuable knowledge into the characteristics of the binders. Such insight has been effective in predicting the performance or distress of road pavement. This paper will, therefore, be of immediate interest to materials engineers in state highway agencies and asphalt industries.

Identification and Characterization of Phytohemagglutinins from White Kidney Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L., var. Beldia) in the Rat Small Intestine.

Although kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) lectin toxicity is widely known, its effects in the gastrointestinal tract require further study. This investigation aimed to identify and characterize phytohemagglutinins (PHAs) in the small intestine and sera of rats following oral challenge with ground white beans. Twenty young, adult male rats were divided randomly into two groups of 10 animals each. The control group underwent gavage with a suspension of 300 mg of rodent pellet flour. The experimental group was administered a 300 mg Beldia bean flour suspension (BBFS). After 10 days of daily treatment, jejunal rinse liquid (JRL) and ileum rinse liquid and secretions, as well as sera, were collected. All biological fluids were screened for lectin reactivity using competitive inhibition ELISA, Ouchterlony double immunodiffusion, and immunoelectrophoresis techniques. The results revealed the presence of immunogenic intraluminal PHAs 3-4 h after the oral intake of the BBFS in the JRLs as well as in the jejunal and ileal secretions; however, no PHA was detectable in the rat sera. Ingestion of raw Beldia beans may lead to interaction between PHAs and the mucosa of the small intestine, potentially resulting in an inflammatory response.

Effect of White Kidney Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L. var. Beldia) on Small Intestine Morphology and Function in Wistar Rats.

The chronic ingestion of raw or undercooked kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) causes functional and morphological derangement in various tissues. The major objectives of this study were to investigate the gavage effects of a raw Beldia bean variety that is widely consumed in Tunisia, on the small intestine morphology and jejunal absorption of water, electrolytes, and glucose in Wistar rats. Twenty young male rats were randomly divided into two groups of 10 rats. The first group served as the control and was gavaged with 300 mg of a rodent pellet flour suspension (RPFS), whereas the second experimental group was challenged with 300 mg of a Beldia bean flour suspension (BBFS) for 10 days. Histological studies were performed using light and electron microcopy. The intestinal transport of water, sodium, potassium, and glucose was studied by perfusing the jejunal loops of the small bowels in vivo. The feeding experiments indicated that BBFS did not affect weight gain. Histomorphometric analyses showed that the villus heights, crypt depths, and crypt/villus ratios in the jejunum and ileum were greater in the BBFS-fed rats than controls. Electron microscopy studies demonstrated that the rats exposed to RPFS exhibited intact intestinal tracts; however, the BBFS-treated rats demonstrated intestinal alterations characterized by abnormal microvillus architectures, with short and dense or long and slender features, in addition to the sparse presence of vesicles near the brush border membrane. BBFS administration did not significantly affect glucose absorption. However, significant decreases were observed in water and electrolyte absorption compared with the uptake of the controls. In conclusion, raw Beldia beans distorted jejunum morphology and disturbed hydroelectrolytic flux.

Toxicity Assessment of Common Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Widely Consumed by Tunisian Population.

This research aimed at assessing the content and the functional properties of phytohemagglutinin (PHA) in different varieties of beans widely consumed in Tunisia through soaking, cooking, autoclaving, germination, and their combinations. This study was carried out on three varieties of white beans grown in different localities of Tunisia, namely Twila, Coco, and Beldia, as well as on imported and local canned beans. All bean samples underwent biochemical and immunological evaluation by employing several techniques such as indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), hemagglutinating assay, Ouchterlony double immunodiffusion, and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Biochemical and immunological analyses indicated that raw dry beans contained a considerable amount of proteins and PHAs. ELISA demonstrated that soaking, either in plain water or in alkaline solution, caused an increase in the concentration of PHA. A slight increase of PHA was produced equally by germination during 4 days in all bean varieties. Cooking or autoclaving of presoaked beans resulted in a complete disappearance of PHA. ELISA test also proved that both imported and local canned beans contained fingerprints of PHA. Hemagglutination assays showed that not only cooked and autoclaved presoaked beans lacked the ability to agglutinate red blood cells but also autoclaved unsoaked beans did. In agar gel immunodiffusion using rabbit anti-PHA serum, raw, soaked, cooked unsoaked, and sprouted beans gave precipitin arc reactions, indicating that PHA existed in immunoreactive form in the tested seeds. SDS-PAGE electrophoretograms showed protein isolates of Twila and Beldia beans to have different profiles through soaking, cooking, and autoclaving processes. This work revealed that the combination of soaking and cooking/autoclaving was the best way in reducing PHA content and its activity in all bean varieties when compared with germination.