Increasing Road Durability by Combining Polymer Waste in HMA.

Abstract

The escalating traffic volume on city roads and inter-state highways necessitates the development of robust and sustainable road infrastructure. This experimental study explores the potential of incorporating polymer non-biodegradable waste, such as Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) and Crumb Rubber (CR), into bitumen to create more durable and environmentally friendly road materials. LDPE and C.R could also be called waste polymers as they are a waste end product.

A blend, termed Eco Mix, was formulated by combining bitumen with waste polymers like LDPE and CR in varying proportions (3%-9%). Marshall testing was conducted to evaluate the volumetric properties, stability, and flow characteristics of the Eco Mix-modified bitumen. Three different Eco Mix formulations (1:1, 1:2, and 1:3 ratios of bitumen to recycled waste) were prepared and substituted for bitumen in varying percentages. The results demonstrated that replacing 7% of bitumen with Eco Mix 3 (1.75% LDPE and 2.25% CR) led to the most significant improvement in engineering properties. This formulation exhibited enhanced volumetric properties, stability, and flow characteristics compared to the control mix and other Eco Mix formulations.

These findings suggest that by optimizing the blend composition and replacement ratio, it is possible to achieve improved road performance without compromising durability or environmental sustainability. Incorporating recycled materials into road construction can be a viable and effective solution to address both environmental concerns and the growing demand for resilient infrastructure.