Analyzing the characteristics of bitumen improved by the addition of waste vegetable oil and a low-density polymer.

The widespread use of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and similar polymers has grown significantly due to population expansion, urbanization, and evolving lifestyles. Simultaneously, the extensive use of vegetable oil for cooking has led to the disposal of waste vegetable oil (WCO) into domestic wastewater, posing a risk of water pollution in natural water sources like rivers. This study's primary objective is to investigate the feasibility of partially replacing bitumen with LDPE and WCO. To achieve this goal, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of properties such as penetration, softening, specific gravity, ductility, flash and fire point temperatures on bitumen samples modified with varying proportions of LDPE (4%, 4.5%, and 5%) in addition to a constant 10% WCO as a substitute for part of the bitumen binder. The inclusion of LDPE and WCO resulted in reduced penetration and ductility values in the modified bitumen, while the specific gravity of these modified samples remained relatively unchanged. This suggests that conventional methods and equipment can still be employed for this asphalt modification. The use of LDPE and WCO as additives to enhance the workability of the asphalt binder presents an environmentally friendly alternative for managing generated waste. Ultimately, reusing LDPE and WCO as components in asphalt applications is deemed to be an economically viable and eco-friendly approach, particularly in hot climate regions.