Optimization of Asphalt Concrete Performance Using Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a Sustainable Bitumen Modifier: 
A Comprehensive Rheological and Mechanical Assessment

Otunola Oluwaseun Olatunji; Balogun Waheed Oyelola; Oyeniyan Wasiu Oyebisi; Ajala Kabir Ayantola

doi:doi:10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12

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Optimization of Asphalt Concrete Performance Using Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a Sustainable Bitumen Modifier: A Comprehensive Rheological and Mechanical Assessment

Otunola Oluwaseun Olatunji^*

, Balogun Waheed Oyelola

, Oyeniyan Wasiu Oyebisi

, Ajala Kabir Ayantola

Published in American Journal of Civil Engineering (Volume 14, Issue 1)

Received: 9 January 2026 Accepted: 19 January 2026 Published: 30 January 2026

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Abstract

This study investigated the potential of utilizing Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a sustainable modifier in asphalt pavement mixtures, systematically examining the characteristics of aggregates, the WPB-modified bitumen binder, and the resulting asphaltic concrete mix. Detailed analysis of the aggregate gradation revealed the coarse fraction to be a well-graded gravel, characterized by a uniformity coefficient (Cu) of 2.47 and coefficient of curvature (Cc) of 1.14, indicative of optimal packing density for structural stability. These aggregates exhibited high durability, with an Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV) of 18.3% and Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) of 16.9%, ensuring resistance to abrasion and impact under traffic loads. In contrast, the fine aggregate was poorly graded (Cc = 0.45), highlighting the need for binder modification to enhance overall mix cohesion. Modification of pure bitumen (initial penetration 69 mm) with WPB progressively induced desirable hardening effects and superior high-temperature performance. Penetration values decreased markedly from 69 mm to 33 mm at 25% WPB incorporation, while the softening point rose substantially from 52°C to 81°C, demonstrating enhanced rutting resistance and thermal stability critical for tropical climates like Nigeria's Lagos region. Additional rheological improvements included increased viscosity (up to 2984 p.a.s), flash point (289°C), and specific gravity (1.13), with minimal ductility loss, collectively affirming WPB's role in creating a more resilient binder. Marshall performance testing on the WPB-modified asphaltic concrete further validated these enhancements. The mixture achieved maximum Marshall Stability of 19.74 kN and peak Marshall Quotient of 4.32 kN/mm at 15% WPB content— a 78% stability increase and 34% quotient gain over the control mix (11.05 kN and 3.22 kN/mm). Flow values remained controlled (3.43–4.57 mm), balancing stiffness with workability. These outcomes, aligned with prior pelletized WPB concrete data showing optimal 10–15% thresholds, confirm WPB's efficacy in boosting stiffness, load-bearing capacity, and deformation resistance. Overall, WPB modification yields a mechanically superior, eco-friendly alternative to conventional asphalt, promoting waste valorization while meeting geotechnical standards for durable pavements in sustainable infrastructure projects.

Published in	American Journal of Civil Engineering (Volume 14, Issue 1)
DOI	10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12
Page(s)	11-19
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2026. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Waste Plastic Bottle, Bitumen, Asphalt, Pavement, Aggregate

References

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Olatunji, O. O., Oyelola, B. W., Oyebisi, O. W., Ayantola, A. K. (2026). Optimization of Asphalt Concrete Performance Using Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a Sustainable Bitumen Modifier: A Comprehensive Rheological and Mechanical Assessment. American Journal of Civil Engineering, 14(1), 11-19. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12

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ACS Style

Olatunji, O. O.; Oyelola, B. W.; Oyebisi, O. W.; Ayantola, A. K. Optimization of Asphalt Concrete Performance Using Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a Sustainable Bitumen Modifier: A Comprehensive Rheological and Mechanical Assessment. Am. J. Civ. Eng. 2026, 14(1), 11-19. doi: 10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12

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AMA Style

Olatunji OO, Oyelola BW, Oyebisi OW, Ayantola AK. Optimization of Asphalt Concrete Performance Using Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a Sustainable Bitumen Modifier: A Comprehensive Rheological and Mechanical Assessment. Am J Civ Eng. 2026;14(1):11-19. doi: 10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12

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@article{10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12,
  author = {Otunola Oluwaseun Olatunji and Balogun Waheed Oyelola and Oyeniyan Wasiu Oyebisi and Ajala Kabir Ayantola},
  title = {Optimization of Asphalt Concrete Performance Using Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a Sustainable Bitumen Modifier: 
A Comprehensive Rheological and Mechanical Assessment},
  journal = {American Journal of Civil Engineering},
  volume = {14},
  number = {1},
  pages = {11-19},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajce.20261401.12},
  abstract = {This study investigated the potential of utilizing Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a sustainable modifier in asphalt pavement mixtures, systematically examining the characteristics of aggregates, the WPB-modified bitumen binder, and the resulting asphaltic concrete mix. Detailed analysis of the aggregate gradation revealed the coarse fraction to be a well-graded gravel, characterized by a uniformity coefficient (Cu) of 2.47 and coefficient of curvature (Cc) of 1.14, indicative of optimal packing density for structural stability. These aggregates exhibited high durability, with an Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV) of 18.3% and Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) of 16.9%, ensuring resistance to abrasion and impact under traffic loads. In contrast, the fine aggregate was poorly graded (Cc = 0.45), highlighting the need for binder modification to enhance overall mix cohesion. Modification of pure bitumen (initial penetration 69 mm) with WPB progressively induced desirable hardening effects and superior high-temperature performance. Penetration values decreased markedly from 69 mm to 33 mm at 25% WPB incorporation, while the softening point rose substantially from 52°C to 81°C, demonstrating enhanced rutting resistance and thermal stability critical for tropical climates like Nigeria's Lagos region. Additional rheological improvements included increased viscosity (up to 2984 p.a.s), flash point (289°C), and specific gravity (1.13), with minimal ductility loss, collectively affirming WPB's role in creating a more resilient binder. Marshall performance testing on the WPB-modified asphaltic concrete further validated these enhancements. The mixture achieved maximum Marshall Stability of 19.74 kN and peak Marshall Quotient of 4.32 kN/mm at 15% WPB content— a 78% stability increase and 34% quotient gain over the control mix (11.05 kN and 3.22 kN/mm). Flow values remained controlled (3.43–4.57 mm), balancing stiffness with workability. These outcomes, aligned with prior pelletized WPB concrete data showing optimal 10–15% thresholds, confirm WPB's efficacy in boosting stiffness, load-bearing capacity, and deformation resistance. Overall, WPB modification yields a mechanically superior, eco-friendly alternative to conventional asphalt, promoting waste valorization while meeting geotechnical standards for durable pavements in sustainable infrastructure projects.},
 year = {2026}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Optimization of Asphalt Concrete Performance Using Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a Sustainable Bitumen Modifier: 
A Comprehensive Rheological and Mechanical Assessment
AU  - Otunola Oluwaseun Olatunji
AU  - Balogun Waheed Oyelola
AU  - Oyeniyan Wasiu Oyebisi
AU  - Ajala Kabir Ayantola
Y1  - 2026/01/30
PY  - 2026
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12
DO  - 10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12
T2  - American Journal of Civil Engineering
JF  - American Journal of Civil Engineering
JO  - American Journal of Civil Engineering
SP  - 11
EP  - 19
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2330-8737
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12
AB  - This study investigated the potential of utilizing Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a sustainable modifier in asphalt pavement mixtures, systematically examining the characteristics of aggregates, the WPB-modified bitumen binder, and the resulting asphaltic concrete mix. Detailed analysis of the aggregate gradation revealed the coarse fraction to be a well-graded gravel, characterized by a uniformity coefficient (Cu) of 2.47 and coefficient of curvature (Cc) of 1.14, indicative of optimal packing density for structural stability. These aggregates exhibited high durability, with an Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV) of 18.3% and Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) of 16.9%, ensuring resistance to abrasion and impact under traffic loads. In contrast, the fine aggregate was poorly graded (Cc = 0.45), highlighting the need for binder modification to enhance overall mix cohesion. Modification of pure bitumen (initial penetration 69 mm) with WPB progressively induced desirable hardening effects and superior high-temperature performance. Penetration values decreased markedly from 69 mm to 33 mm at 25% WPB incorporation, while the softening point rose substantially from 52°C to 81°C, demonstrating enhanced rutting resistance and thermal stability critical for tropical climates like Nigeria's Lagos region. Additional rheological improvements included increased viscosity (up to 2984 p.a.s), flash point (289°C), and specific gravity (1.13), with minimal ductility loss, collectively affirming WPB's role in creating a more resilient binder. Marshall performance testing on the WPB-modified asphaltic concrete further validated these enhancements. The mixture achieved maximum Marshall Stability of 19.74 kN and peak Marshall Quotient of 4.32 kN/mm at 15% WPB content— a 78% stability increase and 34% quotient gain over the control mix (11.05 kN and 3.22 kN/mm). Flow values remained controlled (3.43–4.57 mm), balancing stiffness with workability. These outcomes, aligned with prior pelletized WPB concrete data showing optimal 10–15% thresholds, confirm WPB's efficacy in boosting stiffness, load-bearing capacity, and deformation resistance. Overall, WPB modification yields a mechanically superior, eco-friendly alternative to conventional asphalt, promoting waste valorization while meeting geotechnical standards for durable pavements in sustainable infrastructure projects.
VL  - 14
IS  - 1
ER  -

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Author Information

Otunola Oluwaseun Olatunji

Department of Civil Engineering, Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Nigeria

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0000-0003-1259-7046
Balogun Waheed Oyelola

Department of Civil Engineering, Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Nigeria

http://orcid.org/0000-0003-4484-4793
Oyeniyan Wasiu Oyebisi

Department of Civil Engineering, Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Nigeria

http://orcid.org/0009-0004-3996-2589
Ajala Kabir Ayantola

Department of Civil Engineering, Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Nigeria

http://orcid.org/0009-0003-8058-5634

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APA Style

Olatunji, O. O., Oyelola, B. W., Oyebisi, O. W., Ayantola, A. K. (2026). Optimization of Asphalt Concrete Performance Using Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a Sustainable Bitumen Modifier: A Comprehensive Rheological and Mechanical Assessment. American Journal of Civil Engineering, 14(1), 11-19. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12

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ACS Style

Olatunji, O. O.; Oyelola, B. W.; Oyebisi, O. W.; Ayantola, A. K. Optimization of Asphalt Concrete Performance Using Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a Sustainable Bitumen Modifier: A Comprehensive Rheological and Mechanical Assessment. Am. J. Civ. Eng. 2026, 14(1), 11-19. doi: 10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12

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AMA Style

Olatunji OO, Oyelola BW, Oyebisi OW, Ayantola AK. Optimization of Asphalt Concrete Performance Using Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a Sustainable Bitumen Modifier: A Comprehensive Rheological and Mechanical Assessment. Am J Civ Eng. 2026;14(1):11-19. doi: 10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12

Copy | Download

@article{10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12,
  author = {Otunola Oluwaseun Olatunji and Balogun Waheed Oyelola and Oyeniyan Wasiu Oyebisi and Ajala Kabir Ayantola},
  title = {Optimization of Asphalt Concrete Performance Using Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a Sustainable Bitumen Modifier: 
A Comprehensive Rheological and Mechanical Assessment},
  journal = {American Journal of Civil Engineering},
  volume = {14},
  number = {1},
  pages = {11-19},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajce.20261401.12},
  abstract = {This study investigated the potential of utilizing Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a sustainable modifier in asphalt pavement mixtures, systematically examining the characteristics of aggregates, the WPB-modified bitumen binder, and the resulting asphaltic concrete mix. Detailed analysis of the aggregate gradation revealed the coarse fraction to be a well-graded gravel, characterized by a uniformity coefficient (Cu) of 2.47 and coefficient of curvature (Cc) of 1.14, indicative of optimal packing density for structural stability. These aggregates exhibited high durability, with an Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV) of 18.3% and Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) of 16.9%, ensuring resistance to abrasion and impact under traffic loads. In contrast, the fine aggregate was poorly graded (Cc = 0.45), highlighting the need for binder modification to enhance overall mix cohesion. Modification of pure bitumen (initial penetration 69 mm) with WPB progressively induced desirable hardening effects and superior high-temperature performance. Penetration values decreased markedly from 69 mm to 33 mm at 25% WPB incorporation, while the softening point rose substantially from 52°C to 81°C, demonstrating enhanced rutting resistance and thermal stability critical for tropical climates like Nigeria's Lagos region. Additional rheological improvements included increased viscosity (up to 2984 p.a.s), flash point (289°C), and specific gravity (1.13), with minimal ductility loss, collectively affirming WPB's role in creating a more resilient binder. Marshall performance testing on the WPB-modified asphaltic concrete further validated these enhancements. The mixture achieved maximum Marshall Stability of 19.74 kN and peak Marshall Quotient of 4.32 kN/mm at 15% WPB content— a 78% stability increase and 34% quotient gain over the control mix (11.05 kN and 3.22 kN/mm). Flow values remained controlled (3.43–4.57 mm), balancing stiffness with workability. These outcomes, aligned with prior pelletized WPB concrete data showing optimal 10–15% thresholds, confirm WPB's efficacy in boosting stiffness, load-bearing capacity, and deformation resistance. Overall, WPB modification yields a mechanically superior, eco-friendly alternative to conventional asphalt, promoting waste valorization while meeting geotechnical standards for durable pavements in sustainable infrastructure projects.},
 year = {2026}
}

Copy | Download

TY  - JOUR
T1  - Optimization of Asphalt Concrete Performance Using Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a Sustainable Bitumen Modifier: 
A Comprehensive Rheological and Mechanical Assessment
AU  - Otunola Oluwaseun Olatunji
AU  - Balogun Waheed Oyelola
AU  - Oyeniyan Wasiu Oyebisi
AU  - Ajala Kabir Ayantola
Y1  - 2026/01/30
PY  - 2026
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12
DO  - 10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12
T2  - American Journal of Civil Engineering
JF  - American Journal of Civil Engineering
JO  - American Journal of Civil Engineering
SP  - 11
EP  - 19
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2330-8737
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajce.20261401.12
AB  - This study investigated the potential of utilizing Waste Plastic Bottles (WPB) as a sustainable modifier in asphalt pavement mixtures, systematically examining the characteristics of aggregates, the WPB-modified bitumen binder, and the resulting asphaltic concrete mix. Detailed analysis of the aggregate gradation revealed the coarse fraction to be a well-graded gravel, characterized by a uniformity coefficient (Cu) of 2.47 and coefficient of curvature (Cc) of 1.14, indicative of optimal packing density for structural stability. These aggregates exhibited high durability, with an Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV) of 18.3% and Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) of 16.9%, ensuring resistance to abrasion and impact under traffic loads. In contrast, the fine aggregate was poorly graded (Cc = 0.45), highlighting the need for binder modification to enhance overall mix cohesion. Modification of pure bitumen (initial penetration 69 mm) with WPB progressively induced desirable hardening effects and superior high-temperature performance. Penetration values decreased markedly from 69 mm to 33 mm at 25% WPB incorporation, while the softening point rose substantially from 52°C to 81°C, demonstrating enhanced rutting resistance and thermal stability critical for tropical climates like Nigeria's Lagos region. Additional rheological improvements included increased viscosity (up to 2984 p.a.s), flash point (289°C), and specific gravity (1.13), with minimal ductility loss, collectively affirming WPB's role in creating a more resilient binder. Marshall performance testing on the WPB-modified asphaltic concrete further validated these enhancements. The mixture achieved maximum Marshall Stability of 19.74 kN and peak Marshall Quotient of 4.32 kN/mm at 15% WPB content— a 78% stability increase and 34% quotient gain over the control mix (11.05 kN and 3.22 kN/mm). Flow values remained controlled (3.43–4.57 mm), balancing stiffness with workability. These outcomes, aligned with prior pelletized WPB concrete data showing optimal 10–15% thresholds, confirm WPB's efficacy in boosting stiffness, load-bearing capacity, and deformation resistance. Overall, WPB modification yields a mechanically superior, eco-friendly alternative to conventional asphalt, promoting waste valorization while meeting geotechnical standards for durable pavements in sustainable infrastructure projects.
VL  - 14
IS  - 1
ER  -

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