Feasibility study of incorporation of glass in porous asphalt made of RCA

• Main Author: Soon, Ning.
• Other Authors: Wong Yiik Diew
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2013
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/53927
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

With the constant improvements in our modern lives, waste arising from construction and demolition has inevitably constituted to one of the largest waste streams in many developed countries. The environmental and economic implications are no longer considered sustainable and, as a result, the construction industry is experiencing added pressure than ever to overcome this practice. The most direct approach that can resolve the problem can actually stem from the most unexpected, yet functional mode – reusing and recycling. Much research has been conducted on recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) in full representation for granite aggregates, but few studies are done on the effectiveness of incorporating waste glass with RCA in pavement constructions. As such, this research aims to conduct a feasibility study on the incorporation of glass in a porous asphaltic (PA) mix made of RCA. Three unique mix designs with different material compositions were evaluated and comparisons were made against one another. A series of laboratory analyses, namely Cantabro abrasion, draindown, indirect tensile, skid resistance and rutting tests were performed on Marshall samples to assess for strength, functionality and durability. Consequently, hydrated lime was added as anti-stripping agent and filler to enhance the performance of the mix. Experimental analyses had showed a good indication of the feasibility for use of glass as fine aggregates in a PA mix. However, the experimental mix constituting coarse glass aggregates had failed to perform beyond acceptable range when subjected to skid and rutting resistance tests. The success of this study indicates that fine waste glass aggregates and RCA can be suitable for use in low strength pedestrian pavement construction, and that conventional granite aggregates are not necessary for the job. The project demonstrates an economical and functional mean to reduce waste generated from construction and demolition and, in conjunction, creating a more sustainment environment for all to live in.