(Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering Department), College - Rajshree Institute of Management & Technology, Bareilly, (U.P)
Online published on 28 September, 2023.
Plastic waste has become a significant environmental concern worldwide, necessitating innovative approaches to address its disposal and minimize its impact. This study aims to evaluate the sustainable integration of plastic waste in geosynthetic-reinforced flexible pavements, offering a viable solution for its recycling and beneficial reuse. The research focuses on assessing the performance, durability, and environmental implications of incorporating plastic waste into the pavement system. The study employs laboratory testing and numerical simulations to evaluate the mechanical properties and structural behavior of geosynthetic-reinforced flexible pavements containing varying percentages of plastic waste. Performance indicators such as rutting resistance, fatigue life, and load-bearing capacity are investigated to assess the viability of the plastic-modified pavements. Additionally, environmental impact assessments, including carbon footprint analysis and leachate characterization, are conducted to evaluate the sustainability of the proposed solution. Preliminary results indicate that the incorporation of plastic waste can enhance the mechanical properties of geosynthetic-reinforced flexible pavements, improving their performance and longevity. Plastic waste particles act as fillers, reinforcing the pavement structure and reducing the effects of rutting and fatigue. The numerical simulations demonstrate that the addition of plastic waste leads to increased load distribution and improved load-bearing capacity.
