MODIFIED BITUMEN FROM WASTE MATERIALS - RUBBER CRUMB & LOW DENSITY POLYETHYLENE (LDPE)

The application of crumb rubber modifier (CRM) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) in asphalt mixtures is intended to improve the properties of bitumen in the bituminous mixture. The objective of this study is thus to evaluate the behavior of bituminous mix when added with different types of waste materials and evaluate the performance of this mixture. In this study, a laboratory investigation was conducted on the properties of CRM and LDPE binders as a function of percentages. Evaluation of the binder included the following testing procedures: penetration and softening point test while for the bituminous mixture: Marshall Test, creep test as well as indirect tensile stiffness modulus test. Based from previous literature, it is expected that the results from this study will indicate that the higher CRM and LDPE percentages up to a certain optimum point for binders will lead to a higher viscosity, a better rutting resistance and a less chance for low temperature cracking. However, other factor which is affecting this binder performance is going to be mentioned and recommendations on this area for future study will be stated.