Performance evaluation of flexible pavement using polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Abstract

In this study, the benefits and feasibility of incorporating Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) into Flexible pavement were evaluated. The study aims to identify new ideas on recycling plastic wastes and thereby improving overall sustainability. The Samples were prepared by adding PET with an increasing concentration level along with optimum asphalt content with a percentage by weight of 3.5%, 4.0%, 4.5%, 5.0%, 5.5% and 6%. Multiple tests were conducted on Natural aggregates including Resistance to degradation of aggregates by Abrasion and Impact, Specific Gravity and Abrasion of coarse aggregates, and Impact Value of Aggregates. Similarly, the tests conducted on asphalt include the specific gravity of semi-solid bituminous material, the ductility of bituminous material, the flash point and softening point of asphalt, and the penetration grade of bituminous material. Rutting potential of the optimum asphalt, Plastic mix Was evaluated by increasing the frequency of load cycles from 0 to 5000 cycles. Furthermore, the effect of asphalt and plastic content on the density, Flow, voids, and stability were also analysed. It was found that the addition of PET resulted in improved stability by more than 50% specifically 52%, while 70% improvement was observed in flow characteristics of Hot Mix Asphalt. However, a slight change in density was observed. The sample also showed a reduction in rut depth by more than 40% of the mix.