ASTANA, June 26. /Dunyo IA/.   Feasibility of utilizing plastic waste in road construction is currently being studied in Uzbekistan. The project was initiated by an eco-activist who developed the “Eco-Asphalt” startup, reports Dunyo IA correspondent, citing with the “inbusiness.kz” information agency.

The technology entails adding specific types of non-recyclable plastic into the composition of the asphalt-concrete mixture. According to the developers' vision, this approach will concurrently reduce waste volumes and enhance the quality of the road surface.

Recycled plastic is utilized as one of the mixture's components, which contributes to increasing the durability and resistance of the pavement to external impacts.

According to the preliminary testing results, the innovative material demonstrated indicators that surpass the characteristics of traditional asphalt. In particular, the pavement's durability proved to be two to three times higher compared to conventional road surfaces.

Furthermore, the water absorption indicators have improved significantly. While traditional asphalt exhibits a water absorption rate ranging from 1 to 4 percent, the rate for “Eco-Asphalt” stands at approximately 0.25 percent. According to the developers, this indicates a higher durability of the material and an enhanced resistance to degradation.

To implement this initiative, cooperation has been established with the Agency for Waste Management and Circular Economy Development. Preliminary testing has confirmed the advantages of the technology across a range of key parameters.

The next phase will involve additional research and testing in strict compliance with international standards. Following this, the developers plan to proceed with the practical integration of the technology into road construction operations.

Project was also presented to the leadership of the country. During the presentation, particular emphasis was placed on the necessity of bringing promising developments to practical application and transforming innovative ideas into effective solutions capable of benefiting both society and the economy.