Polymer-modified bituminous binders are widely used in road construction due to their enhanced mechanical performance; however, the effectiveness of these materials critically depends on the actual concentration of polymer modifiers, particularly styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS). This study aims to develop and validate a rapid, reproducible Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy—Attenuated Total Reflectance (FTIR-ATR) spectroscopy method for the quantitative determination of SBS content in polymer-modified bitumen (PMB). Since, to date, there is no clearly defined method for controlling the quantitative content of polymers in PMB, this creates difficulties in accepting the roadway into operation. Calibration PMB samples containing 1–4% SBS were prepared, tested for physical and mechanical properties, and analyzed spectroscopically to identify characteristic absorption bands at 966 cm⁻¹ and 699–760 cm⁻¹. A first-order calibration model was constructed to relate peak intensity to polymer concentration. The results demonstrate a clear linear correlation between SBS content and IR absorption features, confirming the suitability of FTIR as an instrumental method for routine laboratory control. Application of the model allowed determination of actual polymer mass fraction with high accuracy and reproducibility. The findings also showed that increased SBS levels improve softening point, elasticity, and low-temperature resistance, with 3–4% representing a performance-optimal range. Overall, the proposed FTIR-based approach provides an objective and efficient tool for quality control of polymer-modified binders and supports broader standardization efforts in the field.

This article presents the results of tests evaluating the physical and mechanical properties of a modified hydraulic concrete formulation based on Portland cement, intended for use in general construction. The additive consists of post-alcohol distiller’s grains (PaB), soapstock (Sp), caustic soda (NaOH), granite dust (Gr) and acrylic latex (Lx). These components contribute to transforming the strength characteristics of concrete in compression and bending, as well as its water absorption, water permeability and chemical resistance. Based on the results obtained, the effectiveness of the additive was assessed, as was the quantitative improvement in concrete properties, including an evaluation of the life cycle of reinforced concrete structures in aggressive environments. According to the research results, an optimal composition was obtained which increases compressive strength by 6.2%, flexural strength by 7.9%, decreases water absorption by 50.1%, decreases the filtration coefficient by 97.4%, and increases chemical resistance by 42.8%.

Deep soil cementation is widely used for strengthening weak soils; however, the effectiveness of injection mortars largely depends on their penetration ability and interaction with in-situ soil conditions. This study aims to evaluate the performance of an injection mortar through large-scale model testing under conditions as realistic as possible. The experiments were conducted at a scale of 1:25 using loamy soils representative of Astana’s engineering-geological conditions. The model soil was prepared by reproducing natural density and moisture parameters, including an average natural density of 1.85 g/cm³ and moisture content of 13.3%, while overburden pressure was simulated using a rigidly fixed cover. Laboratory tests determined consistency limits (plastic limit 14.42%, liquid limit 19.75%), indicating a semi-solid to solid soil state. A strong correlation (R = 0.99) between added water and achieved moisture content was established, with an optimal water volume of 18,900 cm³ required to achieve target conditions. Compaction tests showed that the required density was achieved with 20-50 roller passes depending on layer depth, resulting in final densities of 1.85-1.88 g/cm³. The results confirm that the proposed modeling approach reliably reproduces in-situ conditions and can be effectively used to assess injection mortar performance in weak soil stabilization.

The article presents a structured narrative literature review of modern research on the use of natural bitumen as a modifier of asphalt mixtures. The main varieties of natural bitumen used in road construction are considered, including Gilsonite, Trinidad Lake Asphalt (TLA), rock asphalt and petrobituminous rocks (oil sands). The analysis of the physico-chemical mechanisms of interaction of natural bitumen with petroleum bitumen, including the influence of asphaltenes, resinous compounds and mineral components on the rheological characteristics of binders, is carried out. Special attention is paid to the influence of natural bitumen on the resistance of asphalt concrete mixtures to rutting, water resistance, aging resistance, fatigue life, modulus of elasticity and low-temperature crack resistance. The reviewed laboratory studies generally indicate that selected natural bitumen modifiers can increase binder stiffness and high-temperature stability. Depending on the modifier type, dosage and mixture system, some studies also report improvements in rutting resistance and moisture-related performance. However, higher modifier contents may reduce low-temperature flexibility, and these laboratory trends should not be interpreted as direct evidence of long-term field durability. Based on the reviewed international evidence and the regional context of Kazakhstan, the potential applicability of natural bitumen modifiers under severe operating conditions is discussed. However, further local experimental and field validation is required before large-scale implementation. Key scientific gaps and promising areas for further research have been identified, including optimizing dosages, adapting technologies to local climatic conditions, and using domestic bitumen resources.

This article presents the results of tests evaluating the physical and mechanical properties of a modified hydraulic concrete formulation based on Portland cement, intended for use in general construction. The additive consists of post-alcohol distiller’s grains (PaB), soapstock (Sp), caustic soda (NaOH), granite dust (Gr) and acrylic latex (Lx). These components contribute to transforming the strength characteristics of concrete in compression and bending, as well as its water absorption, water permeability and chemical resistance. Based on the results obtained, the effectiveness of the additive was assessed, as was the quantitative improvement in concrete properties, including an evaluation of the life cycle of reinforced concrete structures in aggressive environments. According to the research results, an optimal composition was obtained which increases compressive strength by 6.2%, flexural strength by 7.9%, decreases water absorption by 50.1%, decreases the filtration coefficient by 97.4%, and increases chemical resistance by 42.8%.

The paper presents the results of laboratory studies of soils in four regions of Western Kazakhstan: Atyrau, West Kazakhstan, Aktobe, and Mangystau regions. Laboratory tests determined their physical and mechanical properties, while IR Fourier spectroscopy was applied to analyze mineral composition. Modern stabilizing additives were introduced into the soils, and compressive strength was evaluated after 7 and 28 days. The results demonstrated a 1.5–2.5-fold increase in strength compared to untreated samples, with maximum values ranging from 4 to 6 MPa. The greatest effect was observed in sandy loams and carbonate-rich soils, confirming the high potential of stabilizers for enhancing road base performance in the region.