MPC Research Shows Used Water Bottles May Improve Asphalt Performance
Posted: Mar 13, 2025
Research at South Dakota State University shows that plastic from used water bottles can be turned into microfibers and used to improve the performance of asphalt. An increase in electrospun recycled polyethylene terephthalate microfiber (EPM) content increased resistance to rutting and fatigue and improved high-temperature asphalt grade compared with other binders. Tests were conducted on asphalt mixes, which contained different amounts of EPM, to assess their performance. It was observed that adding EPM to asphalt mixes improved their resistance to rutting, cracking, and moisture-induced damage compared with the mixes without any EPM. Use of EPM in asphalt will reduce landfilled plastic and the need for expensive petroleum-based polymers. The use of EPM may extend pavement life, leading to lower construction and maintenance costs.
Rouzbeh Ghabchi, Ph.D. South Dakota State University
Research at South Dakota State University shows that plastic from used water bottles can be turned into microfibers and used to improve the performance of asphalt. An increase in electrospun recycled polyethylene terephthalate microfiber (EPM) content increased resistance to rutting and fatigue and improved high-temperature asphalt grade compared with other binders. Tests were conducted on asphalt mixes, which contained different amounts of EPM, to assess their performance. It was observed that adding EPM to asphalt mixes improved their resistance to rutting, cracking, and moisture-induced damage compared with the mixes without any EPM. Use of EPM in asphalt will reduce landfilled plastic and the need for expensive petroleum-based polymers. The use of EPM may extend pavement life, leading to lower construction and maintenance costs.