The waste transparent nylon modified bitumen properties: Experimental assessment on physical, rheological properties and storage stability

Abstract

The populations consume considerable amount of plastic based materials and accordingly the waste of them increases on daily basis. It is possible to recycle plastic waste with using different technological processes that require excellent energy, cost, labor, and produce significant amount of greenhouse gas. However, the reverse of this situation can also be possible. Using the waste as a modifier in bitumen to improve their characteristics may be an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative method for recycling. In this regard, this study was established on investigation the effect of Waste Transparent Nylon (WTN) with different rate from 0.5% to 3.0% by weight in bitumen with 0.5% increment to be used a modifier for sustainable recycling. To achieve it, series physical and rheological test were performed on the bitumen samples to determine the changes occur in properties of them. Physical test methods including penetration, softening point, viscosity and flashing point were conducted on the unaged samples. On the other hand, rheological test methods including dynamic shear resistance and bending beam rheometer tests were performed on the unaged and aged samples. To determine compatibility between the WTN and bitumen, storage stability tests were conducted. Testing results showed that modifying bitumen with WTN changes bitumen characteristics, significantly. It was found that there are certain increase in softening point, viscosity and flashing point, while decrease in penetration values. Rheological assessment, on the other hand, indicated that there are obvious increase in rutting and thermal cracking resistance, while reduce in fatigue resistance of the bitumen sample. However, WTN modified bitumen samples did not show storage stability except of the one done with 0.5%. Overall, the results pointed out that bitumen modification with WTN can be one of sustainable solution for both recycling of WTN and improvement of bitumen properties. While it is used in bitumen, certain benefits to economy and environment can be achieved