ECO-FLEX PAVEMENT: SUSTAINABLE FLEXIBLE PAVEMENT DESIGN USING WASTE PLASTIC AND RECYCLED CONCRETE AGGREGATE

In this study, the use of waste plastic and recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) as cutting-edge, sustainable materials for road pavement construction is investigated. The purpose of the study is to assess waste plastic bonded with aggregate to be used in the surface course and RCA performance in the GSB (Granular Subbase) layer of flexible pavement for the building of sustainable road infrastructure. The waste plastic is broken up into small pieces, coated in aggregate, combined with heated bitumen, and utilized to create a mixture that is used in the surface course. The analysis is carried out on the plastics used from PET bottles that are considered waste after their use. Bitumen is replaced with plastic at percentages of 3%, 5%, 10%, and 15%. The present study also investigates the results obtained by partially replacing the natural aggregates of the GSB (Granular Subbase) layer of traditional flexible pavement with recycled concrete aggregates by comparing the results of proctor test and CBR values with the specifications and guidelines provided by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India. The physical and mechanical properties of recycled concrete aggregate are almost similar when compared to natural aggregate. The combination of plastic-modified bitumen and recycled aggregates in flexible pavements represents a significant step towards creating more sustainable and resilient road infrastructure.