The Use of Polyethylene Terephthalate Waste for Modifying Asphalt Concrete Using the Marshall Test

Abstract

This study considers the use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste for modifying asphalt concrete. In the study, the optimum bitumen content of asphalt concrete was replaced with 4%, 6%, 8%, 10%, 12%, 14% and 16% of PET waste; the Marshall test was conducted on the samples. A comparison of the unmodified and PET-modified asphalt concrete showed that the stability of the modified asphalt concrete was reduced. The maximum stability for the PET waste-modified asphalt concrete was recorded at a content of 12% PET waste. This gives about a 20.4% reduction in stability. The study reveals that the addition of PET waste to the asphalt concrete causes a reduction in the flow value except with the addition of 14% and 16 % waste. This implies that the introduction of PET waste could improve the permanent deformation resistance of asphalt, although there is concern about a reduction in fatigue resistance.