ABSTRACT
The main objective of this research is to study the possibility of using plastic
wastes containing medium density polyethylene (MDPE) as polymer additives to
asphalt concrete. It was investigated that the influence of MDPE -modified binder
obtained by various mixing time, mixing temperature and MDPE content on the
Marshall Stability, flow and Marshall Quotient (Stability to flow ratio). The binders
used in Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) were prepared by mixing the MDPE in 4 and 6%
(by the weight of optimum bitumen content) and AC-60/70 at temperatures of 155
and 165 C for 5 min and 10 min of mixing time. MDPE-modified asphalt concrete
results in a significant increase in the Marshall Stability value and a Marshall
Quotient value. The 4 % MDPE, 165C of mixing temperature and 10 min of
mixing time were determined as optimum conditions for Marshall Stability, flow
and Marshall Quotient (MQ). MQ increased by 30% compared to control mix. It
can be said that waste MDPE-modified bituminous binders provide better
resistance against permanent deformations due to their high stability and high
Marshall Quotient and it contributes to recirculation of plastic wastes as well as to
safety of the environment.