Impact Factor (2025): 6.9
DOI Prefix: 10.47001/IRJIET
Asphalt
mixtures are widely used in the construction of flexible pavements due to their
cost-effectiveness and ease of construction. However, their mechanical
performance can deteriorate under conditions such as heavy traffic loads,
temperature variations, and moisture exposure. To enhance performance, this
study investigates the effect of polyethylene modification on the mechanical
properties of asphalt. Reclaimed polyethylene, sourced from locally available milk
packaging (OMFED), was used as a polymer additive in three types of asphalt
mixes: Bituminous Concrete (BC), Dense Bituminous Macadam (DBM), and Stone
Mastic Asphalt (SMA). The study determined the Optimum Binder Content (OBC) and
Optimum Polyethylene Content (OPC) for each mix using the Marshall method. The
OBC for mixes with stone dust filler was 4%, while the use of granulated blast
furnace slag and fly ash as fillers resulted in OBCs of 5% for SMA and 4% for
BC and DBM. The OPC was found to be 2% for SMA and DBM, and 1.5% for BC when
using stone dust; for mixes with slag and fly ash, the OPC was 1.5% across all
types. Performance evaluation through drain down tests, static indirect tensile
strength tests, and static creep tests revealed that the inclusion of
polyethylene significantly improves key mechanical properties of the asphalt
mixes. The modified mixes showed enhanced Marshall Stability, reduced binder
drain down, and better resistance to deformation and cracking, indicating that
polyethylene is an effective stabilizing additive in asphalt pavements.
Country : India
IRJIET, Volume 9, Issue 6, June 2025 pp. 176-183