Recent Advances in Polymer-Modified and Plastic-Reinforced Asphalt: A Comprehensive Review of Performance, Rheology, and Sustainability

Yousif. A A; Mohamad H. H. Deifalla; Ahmed Salih. A. O

doi:10.30574/ijsra.2025.17.1.2917

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Recent Advances in Polymer-Modified and Plastic-Reinforced Asphalt: A Comprehensive Review of Performance, Rheology, and Sustainability

Yousif. A A ^*, Mohamad H. H. Deifalla and Ahmed Salih. A. O

Department, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum Sudan.

Review Article

International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2025, 17(01), 1193-1205

Article DOI: 10.30574/ijsra.2025.17.1.2917

DOI url: https://doi.org/10.30574/ijsra.2025.17.1.2917

Publication history

Received on 19 September 2025; revised on 26 October 2025; accepted on 29 October 2025

Abstract

Polymer modification of asphalt binders and the integration of recycled plastics in asphalt mixtures have become central strategies in enhancing pavement durability, reducing maintenance costs, and supporting sustainability goals. This review consolidates recent advances (2020–2025) in polymer-modified asphalt (PMA) systems, encompassing elastomeric and plastomeric modifiers, recycled plastic incorporation, performance indicators, rheological characteristics, and environmental implications. The work also identifies emerging trends in multi-factor aging studies, morphology analysis, and rheological characterization (e.g., MSCR, DSR, and BBR testing). Case studies and life-cycle assessments (LCA) demonstrate significant mechanical and ecological benefits of polymer and plastic modifiers, while compatibility and microplastic release remain active challenges.

Keywords

Polymer-Modified Bitumen; SBS; EVA; Recycled Plastics; Rheology; Sustainability; MSCR; Aging

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How to cite this article

Yousif. A A,Mohamad H. H. Deifalla and Ahmed Salih. A. O. Recent Advances in Polymer-Modified and Plastic-Reinforced Asphalt: A Comprehensive Review of Performance, Rheology, and Sustainability. International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2025, 17(01), 1193-1205. Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/ijsra.2025.17.1.2917.

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