Research Paper
Plastic Based Road
Plastic-based roads, a transformative concept introduced by Rajagopalan Vasudevan, are reshaping sustainable infrastructure globally. With countries like Australia, Indonesia, India, the UK, and the US actively exploring this eco-friendly innovation, the widespread interest reflects a commitment to recycling post-consumer plastics. Notably, the Netherlands' Plastic Road initiative pioneers bicycle paths constructed from prefabricated, hollow, modular elements made from consumer plastic waste. These roads feature innovative hollow spaces that serve as rainwater reservoirs, showcasing a thoughtful approach to sustainable water management. As a 3rd-year diploma student, my active participation in hands-on demonstrations underscores the practical application of plastic-based road construction. The methodology involves collecting, cleaning, and blending plastic waste with bitumen, resulting in a mix laid similarly to traditional asphalt concrete. Plastic roads offer reduced carbon footprints and contribute to diverting plastic waste from landfills, aligning with environmental sustainability goals. Construction methods vary globally, with unique plastic-asphalt blends adopted in countries like India and Indonesia. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the sustained performance of plastic-based roads, marking a significant stride towards eco-conscious transportation networks. In essence, plastic-based roads represent an innovative and environmentally responsible approach to constructing resilient and eco-friendly infrastructure.
Published by: Gautam Mewada, Chaitanya Mandhare, Omkar Borate, Adithyan Madhu, Shreyash Baikar, Vipul Ranjane, Sagar Mungase
Author: Gautam Mewada
Paper ID: V10I1-1160
Paper Status: published
Published: January 16, 2024
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