STUDY OF NATURAL MATERIALS USED IN THE IMPROVEMENT OF RURAL ROADS IN THE SOUTH-WESTERN ZONE OF COLOMBIA

Abstract

The objective of this article was to describe the two most important types of crude oil in Colombia, which underwent studies of physical characterization (flash point, fire point, relative density, viscosity), rheological tests, and spectroscopic analysis using FTIR. Several mixtures were prepared using the crude oils to evaluate their behavior and potential use on secondary roads in southwestern Colombia. These natural materials have been used in the improvement of rural roads in the southwestern zone of Colombia. Information corresponding to the characterization, design, behavior, and construction with heavy crude oil and natural asphalts was compiled. Among the sources used, relevant data were found in the library of the University of Cauca, investigative articles related to heavy crude oil and natural asphalt mixtures developed, and information obtained through interviews with individuals and entities that have worked with these materials, among others. Among the main contributions of this research, it was possible to determine that considering the physicochemical characteristics of the materials used, it is recommended to use the compression immersion method for natural asphalt mixtures, as it evaluates the effect of water on the mixture, which is a basic parameter for the durability of road improvements made with these materials.