Authors:
Adinoyi Murana Abdulfatai; Joshua Ochepo; Musa Ahmed Yerima; Kenneth Ejike Ibedu;
Abstract:
This paper evaluates the strength performance of hot mix asphalt produced with High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) modified bitumen and Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) partially replacing virgin aggregates. Asphalt Institute blending charts was used to determine the quantity of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) to be incorporated into the mixture. Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis and Differential Thermal Analysis (TGA/DTA) was used to determine thermal stability of the High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) was used for characterization of the modified bitumen. Physical test conducted on the Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) and virgin aggregate in accordance with ASTM standard revealed that the aggregate are adequate for use in asphalt production. Marshall method of mix design was adopted for the hot mix asphalt production and testing. Results of Marshall test showed a 6% increase in strength of the asphaltic mixture modified with 10% High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) with respect to the control, other Marshall properties tested also showed an improvement. Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometry (SEM/EDS) was used for microstructural examination and identification of composing elements of the asphaltic mixture respectively. Fibermetric analysis was used explore the fiber content and pore within the mixture.
Keywords:
Bitumen, High Density Polyethylene, Hot Mix Asphalt, Modification, Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement, Strength.