Comparing Binder Modified with Recycled Plastic to Conventional Polymer Modified Binders

摘要

This research compared two recycled plastic products to conventional polymers commonly used for bituminous binder and asphalt mixture production. Samples of the same penetration grade bitumen were modified with 6% of the recycled plastic products, as well as 2%-6% of conventional elastomeric and plastomeric polymers. Testing included index properties and rheological properties used in the United Kingdom and the United States. The results were compared to determine the dosage of conventional polymer that was equivalent to 6% recycled plastic. It was found that 6% recycled plastic was generally equivalent to 3%-6% conventional plastomeric polymer. Although some properties were also comparable to those associated with 3%-4% conventional elastomeric polymer, the force ductility was significantly lower, indicating lower asphalt crack resistance. It was concluded that these recycled plastic products should be considered as a sustainable source of plastomeric polymer for the modification of bituminous binders, rather than as simple binder extenders.