Investigating the Properties of Asphalt Mixes Containing Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate Fiber

Abstract

A large volume of traffic loading on asphalt pavement at high temperature frequently resulted in pavement deterioration due to reduction in strength and loss of structural integrity. This paper presents the effects of recycled polyethylene terephthalate fiber used in the ranges of 1.18 mm to 2.36 mm prepared for 0%, 0.5% and 1.0% by the weight of mineral aggregates. Conventional bitumen 60/70 penetration grade was used as the base binder. The compacted specimens were tested for dynamic creep, resilient modulus and resistance to rutting. It was found that the creep stiffness specimens prepared with 0.5% recycled polyethylene terephthalate fiber tested at 1800 and 3600 load cycles has increased by 11.7% and 23.8%, moreover permanent deformation has reduced by 8.7% and 8.4%, respectively. Furthermore, specimens containing 0.5% recycled polyethylene terephthalate fiber also has increased the resilient modulus by 10.0% and 55.1% while the rutting values decreased by 13.7% and 13.9%, correspondingly. Interestingly, specimens containing 0.5% recycled polyethylene terephthalate fiber exhibits higher mixes stiffness, low rutting and permanent deformation irrespective of test temperature. It can be concluded that specimen containing 0.5% recycled polyethylene terephthalate fiber contributes higher resistance to rutting, promotes better performance compared to conventional mix.