Author(s): Johanna Lindström, Mikael Sørensen, Sophia Müller and Lukas Ivanov

Abstract: The increasing volume of recycled plastic waste has become a significant environmental challenge. Recent studies have highlighted the potential for using recycled plastic in various applications, including construction materials. One such application is in bituminous mixes for road construction, where recycled plastic waste is incorporated to improve the performance of bituminous materials used in footpaths and low-volume roads. This review examines the feasibility of incorporating recycled plastic into bituminous mixes, evaluating its effects on the mechanical properties of the mix, its environmental benefits, and practical guidelines for the preparation of such mixes. Various types of recycled plastic waste, including polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), have been explored for use in road construction, with significant improvements in properties such as strength, durability, and resistance to cracking. However, concerns regarding the environmental impact of plastic use and the long-term sustainability of these mixes remain unresolved. The research outlines the mechanisms through which recycled plastic waste enhances the properties of bituminous mixtures and discusses the challenges associated with its integration into the current road construction practices. Practical mix guidelines are provided, based on a thorough analysis of different recycled plastic waste types, their effect on the mix composition, and optimal usage rates. The review concludes by emphasizing the need for further research on the long-term environmental impact of plastic-modified bituminous mixtures and the potential for wider adoption in low-volume road construction.

DOI: 10.22271/27078329.2026.v5.i1a.62

Pages: 10-13 | Views: 67 | Downloads: 26

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