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Emission characteristics and microplastic generation in recycled waste plastic modified asphalt mixtures
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Researchers evaluated emissions from recycled waste plastic-modified asphalt mixtures using PET, HDPE, PP, and LDPE in India, finding particulate matter and pollutant fume levels comparable to conventional asphalt, minimal microplastic generation due to improved adhesion, but consistently unhealthy air quality index values exceeding 200 near mixing operations.
The sustainable application of recycled waste plastic-modified asphalt (RPMA) is hindered by limited understanding of associated airborne emissions and microplastic (MP) generation. This study evaluates emission characteristics of particulate matter (PM), six types of pollutant fumes, and MP generation from RPMA containing polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), and low-density polyethylene (LDPE), sourced from three locations in India and incorporated via dry and wet methods. PM emissions varied by 1.56–10.1% (dry) and 0.11–18.06% (wet) compared to control mixes, with no significant influence from plastic type, dosage, or method. Pollutant fume levels were comparable to controls, though air quality index values consistently exceeded 200, indicating unhealthy conditions. MP generation was minimal due to improved adhesion in the composite asphalt matrix. While RPMA shows minimal additional emission impacts, improved air quality controls are advised for worker safety.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.