Use of Recycled Waste Plastic for Wet Modification of Bitumen

Abstract

This research delved into the pivotal factors influencing the production of recycled waste plastic (RWP)-modified bitumen using a wet modification process. Two types of RWP, namely, low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and polypropylene (PP), were examined during the investigation. Effect of plastic dosage, blade geometries used for preparation of modified binder, plastic type, and base bitumen was investigated. The study revealed that the geometric design of mixing blades played a decisive role in determining the physical, morphological, and rheological properties of the modified blends. In comparison with Blades 2 and 3, Blade 1, used in this study, demonstrated superior efficiency in enhancing the dispersion of the polymer within the base bitumen. Interestingly, it was found that dispersion of waste plastic and storage stability of the modified blend are not directly related. Storage stability was found to be influenced by the relative density between the polymer and base bitumen. Based on the results of this study, 2% LDPE and 3% PP are recommended for wet modification of bitumen.