Abstract
In modern conditions, special attention is given to the development of environmentally friendly and durable binders produced using secondary and renewable resources. One of the promising approaches is the modification of petroleum binders with natural and polymer components capable of improving their performance characteristics. In this study, the modification of bitumen residue was carried out using a mixture of gossypol resin and recycled polypropylene (RPP) in the presence of potassium persulfate (K₂S₂O₈), which served as a radical initiator. The application of FTIR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy made it possible to identify the formation of new functional groups, an increase in binder polarity, and a more uniform distribution of the polymer phase within its structure. The conducted tests revealed improvements in the adhesive, thermal, and deformation properties of the modified material compared to the original bitumen residue. The enhancement of structural-mechanical strength and aging resistance indicates a synergistic effect between gossypol resin and RPP. The developed technology demonstrates the efficiency of utilizing cotton processing and plastic waste, offering opportunities to create sustainable, high-quality, and competitive binder systems with reduced environmental risks and expanded areas of application, including road construction, waterproofing coatings, industrial mixtures, and innovative composite materials for the construction industry.