Paper Key : IRJ************038
Author: Jayesh Dilip Bagul,Vikas Bhaskar Tadage,Sarthak Ramdas Avhad,Atharva Anil Nagre,N.h Pawar ,N.b Karwa,D.s Kekan
Date Published: 05 Apr 2025
Abstract
ABSTRACTThe rapid increase in plastic waste has become a pressing global environmental issue, especially in developing countries like India. Simultaneously, the quality of road infrastructure continues to deteriorate due to heavy traffic, poor weather resistance, and insufficient maintenance. This research focuses on a sustainable and innovative approach that utilizes waste plastic in bituminous road construction. Plastic materials such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS) are processed and blended with bitumen to enhance pavement performance. This dual-benefit method addresses two major concerns: effective disposal of non-biodegradable waste and enhancement of road quality. The technique is practical and adaptable to existing road construction methods with minimal modification.The project explores both dry and wet mixing techniques for incorporating shredded plastic into hot aggregates or molten bitumen, respectively. Field trials and laboratory testing reveal that plastic-blended bitumen exhibits improved binding properties, enhanced tensile strength, and increased resistance to water-induced damage and deformation. Roads constructed using this method are found to be more durable and less prone to common issues like potholes and cracks. The high-temperature tolerance of plastic-modified bitumen allows it to perform better in extreme weather conditions. The process also reduces the quantity of bitumen required, leading to cost savings and reduced dependency on petroleum-based materials.From an economic perspective, the use of plastic waste reduces the overall construction and maintenance costs of roads. This is particularly beneficial for developing countries aiming to build extensive road networks within limited budgets. Additionally, using waste plastic adds value to an otherwise polluting material, turning it into a valuable construction resource. It minimizes the environmental footprint by diverting plastic from landfills and water bodies. The method has already been implemented successfully in several Indian states, including Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, where test roads have shown promising results over time.In conclusion, this project demonstrates that incorporating plastic waste into bituminous road construction is a viable, scalable, and environmentally friendly solution. It contributes to long-term sustainability by improving infrastructure resilience while addressing environmental challenges. This innovative approach supports the circular economy model by repurposing waste into functional infrastructure components. While challenges such as plastic segregation, processing, and regulatory guidelines remain, the potential benefits far outweigh the limitations. Continued research, policy support, and public-private collaboration can pave the way for widespread adoption of this technique, making future roads stronger, greener, and more cost-effective.Keywords: Waste Plastic, Bituminous Roads, Plastic Recycling, Sustainable Construction, Pavement Durability, Infrastructure Resilience, Environmental Impact, Cost-effective Roads, Modified Bitumen, Circular Economy.