Study on low noise pavements using waste plastics

Abstract

The quality of life along heavily travelled roads is impacted by traffic noise. According to research on pavement noise, it is possible to plan and construct pavement surfaces that will result in quieter roads. Environmental contamination is a pressing problem today, and incorrect plastic waste disposal is a major contributor to it. Utilizing waste plastic has shown that it not only solves disposal issues, but also improves the qualities of bituminous mixtures. We propose use of PET waste plastic to build low-noise pavements in order to address the problems of waste plastic and traffic noise. By using a smooth surface texture and a tiny maximum size aggregate, a low-noise road surface can be constructed while also taking cost, durability, and safety into account. Current work includes testing of materials like aggregate, polymer modified bitumen and analysing them according to specifications and performing the mix tests with and without waste plastic in the mix. Optimum polymer modified bitumen content for Open Graded Friction Course (OGFC) and Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA) mixes were found to be 5.5% and 6.0% respectively. Cantabro test results indicated very nominal wear and tear. Addition of waste plastic of 5% by weight of bitumen along with cellulose fibres in OGFC course yielded a considerable increase in sound absorption i.e 3.5 dB when compared to bituminous concrete course. Addition of waste plastic of 20% by weight of bitumen along with cellulose fibres in SMA course resulted a considerable increase in sound absorption i.e 6 dB when compared to BC course.