Using recycled plastic in road infrastructure

ARRB is passionate about sustainability and resilience.

So it was great for the National Transport Research Organisation to facilitate our intern Jess Coldrey’s work on a research project to investigate the feasibility of using recycled plastic in the roads sector.

Jess recently presented her project at the National Transport Research Centre in Melbourne, where she was joined by representatives from Sustainability Victoria, VicRoads, Downer and recycled plastic products company Replas to hear her findings and brainstorm new solutions.

Jess’ research provided an overview of plastics recycling in Australia and new areas where it could be utilised in transport infrastructure.

Some of the applications discussed were in wearing course asphalt, sub-base stabilisers, and road safety products. Jess also outlined her literature review findings, summarising lab testing and field trials from around the world.

Her consultations with industry and government were formulated into a set of recommendations for market development and future work, which were discussed in a workshop style after the presentation.

ARRB is excited to see where this area takes us next, and how we can best fulfil our commitment as an organisation to sustainability and resilience.