Performance Evaluation of Low-Density Polyethylene Food Packaging Waste as a Modifier in Performance Grade 70 Porous Asphalt Mixtures

Plastic waste, especially Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) from food packaging, poses significant environmental challenges due to its non-biodegradable nature and increasing accumulation. In road engineering, porous asphalt is known for its good drainage properties but has lower stability compared to conventional asphalt. This study evaluates the characteristics of porous asphalt mixtures modified with LDPE food packaging waste as a partial substitute for Performance Grade (PG) 70 asphalt. LDPE waste was sourced from the Pasar Pahing Rungkut Temporary Waste Disposal Site in Surabaya, processed, and incorporated into asphalt mixtures at 3%, 4%, and 5% of total weight. The Australian Asphalt Pavement Association was used as a guideline, and the optimum asphalt content (OAC) was determined to be 4.72%. Laboratory tests included Marshall stability, flow, Marshall Quotient (MQ), permeability, and volumetric properties (Voids in Mixture, Voids in Mineral Aggregate, and Voids Filled with Asphalt). The 5% LDPE mixture showed the best performance, with stability reaching 1101.1 kg, MQ of 930.5 kg/mm, and Voids in Mineral Aggregate (VMA) of 54.9%. All mixtures met Australian Asphalt Pavement Association (AAPA) permeability requirements, and the use of LDPE improved mechanical strength without compromising drainage properties. LDPE food packaging waste has potential as an eco-friendly modifier in porous asphalt, enhancing its stability and technical performance while contributing to sustainable waste management.