DefinePK

Abstract

Greener and more sustainable construction projects have become the target of most agencies and officials, worldwide. With the increase of solid wastes, especially plastic waste, many attempts are made to incorporate these waste materials into construction projects. However, there are sound concerns about the side effects of adding plastic waste to construction materials, mainly Portland Cement Concrete (PCC) mixes. Thus, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of adding plastic waste fibers to PCC mixes when it comes to performance of rigid pavements. Low percentages (25%, 0.375%, and 0.5%) of plastic waste fibers were evaluated. KENSLAB software was utilized to determine stresses, deflections, and Cracking Indices in a rigid pavement. Based on conducting tests and analysis, 0.25% plastic waste fibers could be considered the optimal percentage, since it would enhance the performance of a rigid pavement and extend its design life. However, loss of workability of PCC mixes with plastic waste fibers may be a concern and should be taken care of by adding super plasticizers to counter act this loss.