Circular Hybrid Polymer–Rubber Asphalt: A 2026 Global Framework for Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Pavement Infrastructure

Abstract

Rapid expansion of global transportation infrastructure is increasingly challenged by climate variability, heavy traffic loads, and environmental pollution caused by non-biodegradable plastic waste and discarded automobile tires. This study proposes a sustainable hybrid circular asphalt system incorporating waste Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) and recycled Crumb Rubber (CR) into Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) using an optimized wet-process binder modification technique.The research evaluates volumetric properties, mechanical performance, deformation resistance, climatic durability, environmental sustainability, and economic feasibility using laboratory experimentation supported by updated 2026 material and cost data. Multiple replacement ratios of conventional bitumen were investigated to determine the optimum hybrid modifier composition. Experimental results indicate that replacing 7% of traditional bitumen with the LDPE–CR hybrid blend significantly enhances Marshall stability, improves resistance to rutting and thermal cracking, reduces binder consumption, and extends pavement service life.

Economic assessment reveals cost savings exceeding 5% compared with conventional asphalt mixtures, while simultaneously mitigating environmental impacts associated with plastic and tire waste accumulation. The integration of polymer and rubber waste into asphalt mixtures supports circular economy principles by transforming hazardous waste into high-performance infrastructure materials.