In Nigeria, the pressing need for more durable road infrastructure has prompted research into enhanced pavement construction. This study focuses on reinforcing asphaltic concrete with polypropylene fiber waste (PFW) to improve longevity, a critical aspect given the suboptimal conditions of many Nigerian roads. Various tests were conducted, including sieve analysis, aggregate crushing value, water absorption, specific gravity, and the marshal test, with results analyzed through variance analysis (ANOVA). Experimentally, stability values for asphaltic concrete with 0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, and 5% PFW were 4.65 kN, 5.3 kN, 6.8 kN, 6.95 kN, and 7.1 kN, respectively.
Mathematical modeling revealed that the optimum PFW content for achieving maximum stability is 4.16%. Notably, the study concludes that 3% PFW yields the most desirable properties, indicating a promising avenue for improving pavement durability amidst escalating traffic demands. This research contributes to the broader goal of developing robust, long-lasting road infrastructure in Nigeria, aligning with the vision of safe, durable, and low-maintenance pavements over a desirable 15-20-year period.
Key words: polypropylene fiber waste, Asphaltic concrete, optimum stability
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