Applicability of recycled plastic for road construction in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Even though Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB) is being emerged as an alternative for conventional asphalt in the global context, the use of recycled plastics to produce PMB is still an unorthodox concept in Sri Lanka. Therefore, the study aimed at evaluating the applicability of recycled plastic as a construction material in road construction in Sri Lanka. The study apprehended a qualitative approach comprising a literature review, followed by twelve expert interviews. The data were analysed using manual content analysis. The economic, environmental, and social benefits and enablers along with social, technology-related, knowledge-related, economic, and resource-related barriers in implementing PMB in Sri Lanka were identified. Additionally, strategies to overcome such barriers were suggested. The study further recommends the use of recycled polymers over virgin polymers; increasing the awareness level in the industry; extending the government involvement; and establishing a standard specification.