Composition and physicochemical properties of natural bitumen from the Pasar Wajo deposit (Indonesia)

Abstract

The physicochemical properties and composition of bitumens extracted from three different areas of the Pasar Wajo deposit, Indonesia have been comprehensively studied. It has been found that the bitumens are classified as asphalt in terms of density and oil content. Characteristic features of the composition of the bitumens are low concentrations of sulfur and trace elements and the lack of normal-chain hydrocarbons. On the basis of data on the composition and physicochemical properties of bitumen, possible processing routes, namely, the manufacturing of binders for road and construction purposes have been suggested.