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A Safe Collection Process of Covid-19 Disposable Face Masks for the Applications in Asphalt Pavements
Summary
This study developed a theoretical collection and processing pathway for disposable COVID-19 face masks to enable their use as a material in asphalt pavement. The pandemic generated massive quantities of mask waste, which contains polypropylene microplastics; the proposed approach offers a way to divert this waste from landfills while making use of its material properties.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, plastic pollution became exacerbated by the disposal of face masks. The practical collection, processing, and application of the face mask have become a major challenge. Several studies have examined the added benefits of using face masks on asphalt pavements; however, these studies were limited to the application and have not addressed the appropriate collection process. This research aims to develop a theoretical collection process of disposable face masks originating from locations other than hospitals. The process aims to collect face masks safely and practically from residential, commercial, and educational zones. The masks would be collected twice a month and disinfected and sterilized before being transported to a shredding company for processing before being transported to an asphalt plant for use in asphalt mixtures. The developed collection method will minimize the risk of being affected by the Covid-19 virus and provide a practical procedure that can be used by waste management facilities. Additionally, the developed collection method could aid the construction industry in adopting a more environmentally friendly, sustainable, and cost- effective method of construction.