Performance of Bituminous Binder Modified with Recycled Plastic Pellets

Finding beneficial uses for waste plastics has been an environmental challenge for municipalities. A limited number of studies have investigated the performance of asphalt mixtures containing plastic waste in cold regions that experience freeze-thaw cycling. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of adding two types of recycled plastic pellets on the high- and low-temperature performance of bituminous binders. Nylon-based (NP) and polyester-based (PP) recycled plastic pellets were used in this study. A PG 58-28 bituminous binder was modified by different dosages of NP and PP plastic pellets. The impact of adding Elvaloy copolymer and polyphosphoric acid on the modified binders was also investigated. Results showed that using recycled plastic pellets as a modifier for bituminous binders improved their elastic response and rutting resistance without affecting their low-temperature performance. The PP modifier showed better elastic behavior and rutting resistance than the NP modifier.

Automated summary

In cold regions with freeze-thaw cycling, adding recycled plastic pellets as modifiers for bituminous binders can improve their elastic response and rutting resistance without affecting their low-temperature performance. Polyester-based recycled plastic pellets show better elastic behavior and rutting resistance compared to nylon-based ones.