A novel method for refining of acidic sludge and mixing with vacuum bottom to improve bitumen properties.

In this study acidic sludge was refined by a novel method that involves neutralization and extraction of organic compound by a waste solvent. Study on refined sludge indicated that sulfuric acid and major of impurities were removed from sludge. Moreover, resin and asphaltene and accordingly ductility of sludge increased. In continue, different amounts of sludge residue were added to vacuum bottom for bitumen preparation. Test results indicated that sludge residue improved mechanical property and elastic modulus of bitumen. Thermal tests illustrated fine thermal stability of blends at production temperature. Also, aging data described reasonable durability for samples. Consequently, by this approach not only hazardous acidic sludge was eliminated from environment but also it improved mechanical properties of bitumen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]