The asphalt binder utilized in this investigation was a specialized formulation incorporating LDPE as a modifying agent. LDPE, derived from recycled post-consumer plastic waste [23 (link)], was selected for its unique properties that have shown promise in enhancing the performance of asphalt binders. The LDPE modification process involved carefully blending the recycled polymer with the base asphalt binder (provided by Korean Asphalt company, Seoul, Republic of Korea) under controlled conditions. The selection of LDPE was aimed at capitalizing on its molecular structure, which imparts desirable attributes such as improved elasticity, flexibility, and resistance to temperature-induced aging. Figure 1 provides an overview of the research.
The addition of LDPE to the asphalt binder was expected to improve rheological properties, positively impacting the overall durability and fatigue resistance of the asphalt mixture. Furthermore, LDPE’s role in potentially mitigating the impact of wetting–drying cycles on asphalt performance was a key aspect of this study. The modified binder was subjected to thorough laboratory testing, including rheological analyses and microstructural evaluations, to assess the efficacy of LDPE in enhancing the asphalt binder’s properties and its subsequent impact on the overall performance of the asphalt mixture. The choice of LDPE-modified asphalt aligns with sustainable practices by repurposing plastic waste and has the potential to offer a resilient and eco-friendly solution for asphalt pavement applications.
In the utilization of recycled LDPE in the asphalt mixtures, the focus was on ensuring material homogeneity. The recycled LDPE underwent thorough pre-processing to minimize impurities and attain a more uniform composition. It is acknowledged that the recycled LDPE stream might contain traces of impurities inherent to the recycling process. Nevertheless, careful monitoring and control were exercised to maintain the desired quality standards for asphalt mixture production. The incorporation of recycled LDPE aligns with the commitment to sustainable practices and the reuse of materials in road pavement applications. The general properties of LDPE are shown inTable 1 .
The addition of LDPE to the asphalt binder was expected to improve rheological properties, positively impacting the overall durability and fatigue resistance of the asphalt mixture. Furthermore, LDPE’s role in potentially mitigating the impact of wetting–drying cycles on asphalt performance was a key aspect of this study. The modified binder was subjected to thorough laboratory testing, including rheological analyses and microstructural evaluations, to assess the efficacy of LDPE in enhancing the asphalt binder’s properties and its subsequent impact on the overall performance of the asphalt mixture. The choice of LDPE-modified asphalt aligns with sustainable practices by repurposing plastic waste and has the potential to offer a resilient and eco-friendly solution for asphalt pavement applications.
In the utilization of recycled LDPE in the asphalt mixtures, the focus was on ensuring material homogeneity. The recycled LDPE underwent thorough pre-processing to minimize impurities and attain a more uniform composition. It is acknowledged that the recycled LDPE stream might contain traces of impurities inherent to the recycling process. Nevertheless, careful monitoring and control were exercised to maintain the desired quality standards for asphalt mixture production. The incorporation of recycled LDPE aligns with the commitment to sustainable practices and the reuse of materials in road pavement applications. The general properties of LDPE are shown in
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