Repurposing the disposable face masks in hot mix asphalt: Enhancing pavement performance and addressing plastic waste pollution

Single-use disposable face masks are one of the medical wastes, especially introduced by COVID-19, which brought global challenges in managing waste, particularly the continuous increase in single-use face masks. These masks, primarily made from polypropylene (PP), are non-biodegradable and contribute significantly to plastic pollution. This paper explores a novel approach to mitigate the environmental impact of discarded face masks by repurposing them as an additive in hot mix asphalt (HMA). By incorporating shredded face masks into HMA, this study aims to improve the mechanical performance of asphalt pavements, especially rutting resistance. A life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) is also conducted to evaluate the economic feasibility of using face masks in HMA, comparing the long-term costs of mask-modified asphalt to conventional pavements. The results indicate that integrating face masks into asphalt can significantly enhance pavement durability while providing long-term cost savings through reduced maintenance. This research not only addresses the growing plastic pollution problem but also proposes a sustainable, cost-effective solution for future road construction.