REDUCING PLASTIC WASTE: A MECHANICAL ANALYSIS OF PLASTIC SUBSTITUTION IN URBAN ROAD CONSTRUCTION

Abstract

The Municipality of Loja used asphalt mixtures with stone materials for local roads. This research focuses on analyzing the mechanical properties of these mixtures when part of the fine aggregates was replaced with reused and crushed PET plastic waste. The aim was to determine if the substitution of PET improved the physical-mechanical properties of the analyzed mixtures applying Marshall tests. The process consisted of carrying out an asphalt design following the specifications of the local Standard for Road Design Studies of Ecuador, replacing part of the fine aggregates with approximately 3mm plastic, in percentages of 1%, 3%, 5% and 10%. The samples were analyzed using the Marshall method, including base sample with 0% substitution and the samples prepared with PET substitution. The results indicated that the substitution of up to 3% of fine aggregate with crushed PET meet the requirements in terms of the physical-mechanical properties of the mixture. Specifically, an improvement in the stability and flow of the mixture were observed, along with good stiffness and compaction without cracking. In conclusion, the substitution of plastic in asphalt mixtures can be a viable production alternative to improve the mechanical properties of the mixtures, and could contribute to reduce plastic waste, thus reducing the carbon footprint.