Properties of Rejuvenated Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement Mixtures with Waste Glass Powder and Sisal Fibers for Pavements

Abstract

By exploring the usage of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) mixtures in pavement construction, this study fills a substantial gap in the literature. The research includes a number of experimental investigations ranging from enhancing binder qualities to efficiently using waste engine oil (WEO) as a rejuvenator, as well as detailed performance evaluations using waste glass in powdered form. RAP materials were meticulously graded to provide stone matrix asphalt compositions. Throughout the study, a reinforcing supplement of 0.30% sisal fiber was utilized. The determination of optimal (fresh) binder content (OBC) of 3.50% and the selection of a lowered OBC of 2.50% with the adding of 20% WEO rejuvenator are among the preliminary key results. The study also effectively modified RAP mixes by including waste glass powder (WGP) as a mineral additive, yielding an optimal dose of 5.0% for a selected RAP mix. Performance testing on the improved RAP mixtures produced remarkable results. The Marshall stability value was increased by 20% with 5.0% WGP content. The Marshall quotient constantly fell between 2 and 5 kN/mm, which is the desired range. Tensile strength ratios often crossed 80%, and the drain-down potential was decreased by the use of WGP drastically. The combination with a 5.0% WGP content excelled the control mixture in rutting and fatigue testing and had a maximum retained Marshall stability of 93.1%. Additionally, pavement design utilizing Indian Roads Congress criteria demonstrated the viability of building pavements for low-volume roads using RAP mixtures in an efficient and sustainable manner. This study highlights the utilization of RAP to achieve sustainability in pavement building, offering a viable approach to bituminous pavement rehabilitation. This research offers valuable insights for practitioners involved in pavement construction, specifically addressing how rejuvenated reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) mixtures, when integrated with waste glass powder (WGP) and sisal fiber (SF), can enhance pavement performance. By optimizing the mix with 5.0% WGP and 0.30% SF, this study demonstrates a significant improvement in pavement performance. The findings suggest that such optimized RAP mixtures can significantly enhance the Marshall stability value, a key indicator of paving mix quality, by 20% compared to traditional mixtures developed with the consumption of virgin materials. Moreover, the research outlines the potential for these mixtures to reduce pavement maintenance needs and increase longevity, with tensile strength ratios exceeding 80%, indicating satisfactory performance. The application of these findings can lead to more sustainable and cost-effective solutions in pavement construction and rehabilitation demands. Further, the utilization of readily available waste materials, such as discarded glass and engine oil, will mitigate the issue of waste management and also reduce the associated carbon footprints. By adopting this innovative approach, pavement construction practitioners and firms can achieve better resource efficiency and contribute to the broader goal of sustainable development in future roadway infrastructural projects.