Laboratory evaluation of HMA with high density polyethylene as a modifier

This paper investigates the viability of using high density polyethylene (HDPE) as a modifier for asphalt paving materials. Different ratios of HDPE by weight of asphalt were blended with 80/100 paving grade asphalt. Unmodified and modified asphalt binders were subjected to physicochemical and homogeneity tests. The performance tests including, Marshall Stability, Marshall Quotient (MQ), tensile strength, tensile strength ratio, flexural strength and resilient modulus were carried out on unmodified and modified hot asphalt mixtures. The analyses of test results show that the performance of HDPE-modified asphalt mixtures are better than conventional mixtures. The moisture susceptibility and temperature susceptibility can be reduced by the inclusion of HDPE in the asphalt mixture. A HDPE content of 5% by weight of asphalt is recommended for the improvement of the performance of asphalt concrete mixtures similar to that investigated in this study.

Research highlights
► We investigate use of high density polyethylene as asphalt paving materials modifier.
► Performance tests were carried out on unmodified and modified hot asphalt mixtures.
► Performance of modified asphalt mixtures is better than conventional mixtures.
► Moisture and temperature susceptibility can be reduced by the inclusion of HDPE.