Functionalized Waste Plastic Granules to Enhance Sustainability of Bituminous Composites

This paper evaluates the merits of using waste plastic granules made from functionalized polyethylene terephthalate (PET) to enhance bitumen's bond strength endure extreme environmental conditions such as aging and moisture. The applicability PET a modifier for bitumen has been hindered by PET's low compatibility with bitumen, causing phase separation. In this study, improve flakes were grafting bio-oils onto their surface. study optimized method functionalization selecting optimal time exposure microwave irradiation based on following criteria: temperature below melting PET, reduction in separation PET-modified multiple stress creep recovery, shear thinning behavior. It was found that is 10 minutes. efficacy non-treated modifiers then studied after various levels moisture damage. Bitumen's interaction siliceous surfaces evaluated (BBS) test moisture-induced shear-thinning index (MISTI) test. results BBS test, performed glass substrates , showed modified (OTPG) exhibited highest pull-off tensile greatest resistance damage adverse conditions. modifying OTPG reduced susceptibility 25% measured improvement also noticed MISTI which lowest OTPG. outcome shows plastics pavements durability while promoting sustainability resource conservation.