Use of waste plastics and copper slag for low cost bituminous roads

Abstract

Study presents use of waste plastics and copper slag (CS) in hot bituminous mixes to enhance pavement performance, protect environment and provide low cost roads. Waste plastic modified bitumen (WPMB) has been prepared by adding mixed plastic waste (5%) in shredded form with suitable cross-linking agent in 80/100 bitumen and blended for 1 h at 160°C. Physical properties of WPMB are found within specified limits (IS: 15462-2004). Delhi quartzite aggregate (size, 20 mm, 10 mm), stone dust and lime along with varying concentrations of CS as aggregate filler is taken for preparation of Marshall specimens (60/70 paving bitumen, 80/100 paving bitumen and WPMB). Optimum binder content is achieved at 5.2% (by wt of mix). Marshall specimens are also prepared with composition of CS (10, 15 and 20%) replacing stone dust; CS (15%) has been found best.