MODIFYING ASPHALT CONCRETE WITH WASTE PAPER AND POLYMER ADDITIVES FOR ENHANCED PAVEMENT PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Improving the durability and performance of asphalt concrete pavements under high traffic loads and adverse climatic conditions remains a key challenge in road construction. One promising approach is the modification of bituminous binders and asphalt mixtures using secondary raw materials, which can enhance material properties while addressing environmental concerns. This study evaluates the effectiveness of various modifiers, including raw rubber, polyvinyl acetate, polyacrylamide, wax, and a paraffin–styrene/PVP copolymer, as well as cellulose fibers from waste paper and polyethylene terephthalate fibers for asphalt concrete modification. The research methods included standard bitumen tests, atomic force microscopy analysis of bitumen microstructure, and mechanical testing of asphalt concrete. The results showed that the addition of 1.5–2% raw rubber to BND 90/130 bitumen provided the most significant improvement in physico-mechanical and adhesive properties. Cellulose fiber reinforcement increased the compressive strength of asphalt concrete, whereas polyethylene terephthalate fibers led to a reduction in strength. Microstructural analysis confirmed substantial changes in bitumen morphology after modification. The study demonstrates that the combined use of rubber-modified bitumen and polymer-treated cellulose fibers is an effective solution for improving asphalt concrete performance. The proposed approach enables the utilization of secondary waste materials in road construction, contributing to both enhanced pavement durability and sustainable waste management.All tests were performed on at least three replicate specimens, and results are presented as mean ± standard deviation.