Sustainable Pavement Materials: A Comprehensive Review of Performance, Environmental Impacts, and Implementation Challenges

• Abak Badran

  University of Bologna

• Waseem Aldabbik

  Cracow University of Technology

• Wesam Al Agha

  University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara

• Razan Alzein

  Veltech Rangarajan Dr.Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology

Sustainability has become a central focus in pavement engineering, particularly in the selection and design of materials. This review examines advances in sustainable pavement technologies, including recycled aggregates, reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), warm-mix asphalt (WMA), bio-binders, industrial byproducts, and other eco-friendly innovations such as recycled rubber and plastics. Studies up to 2022 highlight significant environmental, economic, and performance benefits. RAP and recycled concrete aggregates reduce virgin aggregate demand and greenhouse gas emissions, often without compromising durability. WMA allows asphalt production at lower temperatures, reducing energy use and emissions by 20–75%, while improving workability and accommodating higher recycling rates. Bio-binders derived from renewable or waste resources lower carbon footprints but may require optimization for high-temperature performance. Industrial byproducts like fly ash and slag not only valorize waste but can enhance pavement durability. Life-cycle assessment (LCA) consistently demonstrates that integrating sustainable materials reduces environmental burdens across a pavement’s service life compared to traditional materials. Overall, sustainable pavement technologies offer dual benefits: environmental impact reduction and economic viability, while maintaining reliable structural performance. These findings align with global objectives to advance sustainable infrastructure and highlight the critical role of innovative materials in future pavement systems.

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Copyright (c) 2023 Abak Badran, Waseem Aldabbik, Wesam Al Agha, Razan Alzein

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