Experimental study on bituminous concrete pavement using low density polyethylene and sasobit

Abstract

Since there is a constant increase in high traffic intensity, Bituminous Pavements are predicted to function better these days. Bituminous Pavements perform poorly in moisture-induced conditions. Moisture damage causes stripping or the separation of the binder from the aggregates. According to a thorough literature analysis, adding polymers to asphalt binders helps to enhance the bond between the aggregate and the binder, which may help to improve numerous features of asphalt pavements and aid to meet the aforementioned standards. The widespread usage of plastic in products such as wrappers, carry bags, and cold drink bottles has serious environmental and economic consequences. The safe disposal of these plastic wastes is a major social concern. Also, high temperature mixing of bituminous materials in Hot Mix Plants (HMA) generates toxic gases, affects global warming and reduces the hauling distance of the asphalt concrete pavements. The present study was conducted to investigate the impact of partial replacement of Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) waste in bituminous mixes at four different percentages of bitumen contents 4.2%, 4.7%, 5.2% and 5.7%. Furthermore, Sasobit an organic additive of Warm Mix Asphalt Technology at constant percentage of 3% by weight of bitumen was also used with Varying percentages of LDPE, such as 2%, 4% and 6% respectively. This Study examined the effect of above-mentioned types of mixes on Marshall Properties. The inculsion of plastic increased the stability of the mixes. The maximum stability achieved with 4% plastic and 3% sasobit. The addition of sasobit lowers the Tensile Strength Ratio (TSR) value but well under specified limits. Hence, Low-Density Polyethylene with sasobit can be well utilized in bituminous mixes.