CHAPTER ONE

1.INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background study

The use of asphalt in road construction has been prevalent for many years, and it is one of the most
widely used materials for paving roads. However, asphalt has some drawbacks, including the release of
harmful emissions during production and the depletion of natural resources. Therefore, researchers are
exploring ways to partially replace asphalt with sustainable alternatives. One such alternative is the use
of sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass

Sugarcane molasses is a by-product of the sugar industry and is commonly used in the production of
ethanol. It is a viscous liquid that contains sucrose, glucose, and fructose, among other compounds. The
use of sugarcane molasses in asphalt mixtures has been explored as a way to improve the performance
of the asphalt, reduce its cost, and promote sustainability.

Recycled glass is another material that has gained attention in recent years as a sustainable alternative
to traditional aggregate materials in asphalt mixtures. Glass is a non-biodegradable material that can be
crushed and recycled into different sizes for use as aggregate in asphalt. The use of recycled glass in
asphalt mixtures can reduce the demand for virgin materials and decrease the amount of waste sent to
landfills.

Several studies have investigated the feasibility of using sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in
asphalt mixtures. These studies have shown that the addition of sugarcane molasses can enhance the
performance of the asphalt mixtures by increasing their stiffness, improving their resistance to moisture
damage, and reducing their susceptibility to rutting. The addition of recycled glass, on the other hand,
can improve the mixtures' stability and resistance to cracking.

Overall, the partial replacement of asphalt with sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass has the
potential to reduce the environmental impact of road construction while maintaining the performance
of the asphalt mixtures. However, further research is needed to optimize the mixture design and
evaluate the long-term performance of the mixtures in the field.

1.2 Problem Research

Research problem:

The use of asphalt for road construction is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and the
availability of asphalt may be limited in some regions. Therefore, there is a need to investigate the
possibility of partially replacing asphalt with sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass in road
construction.

Solution:
The partial replacement of asphalt with sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass can lead to
several benefits. Sugarcane molasses is a byproduct of the sugar industry, and its utilization can reduce
waste and increase sustainability. Recycled glass, on the other hand, can also contribute to sustainable
road construction by reducing waste and conserving natural resources.

To investigate the feasibility of this solution, laboratory experiments can be conducted to determine the
mechanical properties of the sugarcane molasses and recycled glass mix. The mix proportions can be
varied to determine the optimal blend that provides the required properties for road construction, such
as stability, durability, and resistance to deformation.

The durability of the mix can be evaluated by subjecting the samples to environmental conditions such
as moisture, temperature, and UV radiation. Additionally, the mix's performance can be evaluated using
standard tests, such as the Marshall Stability Test, the Indirect Tensile Strength Test, and the Dynamic
Modulus Test.

Finally, a cost-benefit analysis can be conducted to determine the economic feasibility of using
sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass as a partial replacement for asphalt. The analysis should
consider the cost of materials, labor, equipment, and maintenance over the expected lifespan of the
road.
1.3Justification

1. Sustainability: The use of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in road construction reduces the
environmental impact of asphalt production. Sugarcane molasses is a byproduct of the sugar industry,
and its use in road construction provides a valuable alternative to its disposal. Similarly, the use of
recycled glass reduces waste and provides a sustainable solution for road construction.

2. Cost-effectiveness: The use of sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass as a partial
replacement for asphalt can result in cost savings. The cost of sugarcane molasses is typically lower than
that of asphalt, and the use of recycled glass reduces the need for virgin materials, which can be
expensive.

3. Durability: Sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass has been shown to improve the
durability of asphalt pavements. The addition of sugarcane molasses enhances the binding properties of
the mixture, while the addition of recycled glass improves the stiffness and strength of the pavement.

4. Performance: The use of sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass has been shown to
improve the performance of asphalt pavements. The addition of sugarcane molasses improves the
resistance to moisture damage, while the addition of recycled glass improves the resistance to rutting
and cracking.

5. Health and safety: The use of sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass in road construction
can improve the health and safety of road workers and the general public. The use of recycled materials
reduces the exposure to harmful chemicals and the use of sugarcane molasses reduces the need for hot-
mix asphalt, which can emit harmful fumes.

1.4 Objective

1.4.1Broad Objective

Partial replacement of asphalt with sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass

1.4.2 Specific Objectives

1.To reduce the amount of virgin asphalt used in road construction and maintenance.

2.To utilize sugarcane molasses and recycled glass, which are waste products, in a sustainable manner.

3.To improve the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures, such as stiffness, strength, and durability.

4.To increase the resistance of asphalt to deformation and cracking caused by traffic loads and
temperature changes.

5.To enhance the sustainability of road infrastructure by reducing the environmental impact of
construction and maintenance activities.

6.To investigate the effect of different proportions of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass on the
performance of asphalt mixtures.
7.To evaluate the economic feasibility of using sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in asphalt
mixtures.

8.To develop guidelines and specifications for the use of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in
asphalt mixtures.

9.To promote the adoption of sustainable practices in road construction and maintenance.

1.5 Research Hypothesis

"Adding sugarcane molasses and recycled glass as partial substitutes for asphalt in pavement
construction will result in improved durability, reduced environmental impact, and lower costs."

This hypothesis implies that the use of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass as substitutes for asphalt
can offer several benefits. The hypothesis suggests that the new mixture will improve the longevity of
the pavement, reducing maintenance and repair costs. Additionally, the use of recycled materials will
contribute to sustainability goals by reducing waste and lowering carbon emissions. Finally, the
hypothesis suggests that this approach could be cost-effective, potentially saving money in the long
term.

This hypothesis could be tested through a variety of methods, such as laboratory experiments, field
testing, and computer simulations. Researchers could measure the properties of the new mixture and
compare them to traditional asphalt to determine its durability and environmental impact. They could
also calculate the costs of using the new mixture and compare them to traditional asphalt to assess the
economic feasibility of the approach.

1.6 SCOPE OF STUDY

The scope of study for partial replacement of asphalt with sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass
in Kenya would involve a comprehensive analysis of the properties of the materials used, including
sugarcane molasses, recycled glass, and asphalt. The study would also involve the evaluation of the
performance of the asphalt mixtures containing the sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in terms of
their mechanical, physical, and chemical properties.

The study would investigate the effects of varying proportions of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass
on the properties of the asphalt mixture, as well as the optimum proportion of sugarcane molasses and
recycled glass that can be used as partial replacement for asphalt in Kenya.

In addition, the study would explore the potential economic, environmental, and social benefits of using
sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in asphalt mixtures in Kenya, including the reduction of carbon
emissions, the creation of employment opportunities, and the reduction of waste in landfills.

Finally, the study would consider the feasibility of using sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in asphalt
mixtures in Kenya, taking into account factors such as availability of the materials, production costs, and
regulatory requirements.
2.LITERATURE REVIEW
The partial replacement of asphalt with sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass has been
investigated in several studies, and the results are promising. The following literature review
summarizes some of the research conducted on this topic.

In one study, researchers examined the effects of using sugarcane molasses and recycled glass as partial
replacements for asphalt binder in pavement mixtures. The results showed that the addition of
sugarcane molasses and recycled glass increased the viscosity and storage modulus of the asphalt
binder, which improved the resistance to rutting and fatigue cracking in the pavement. Furthermore, the
use of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass as partial replacements for asphalt binder reduced the
amount of petroleum-based asphalt required in the mixture, which can lead to cost savings and reduced
environmental impact (Zhang et al., 2017).

Another study investigated the effect of sugarcane molasses on the rheological properties of asphalt
binder. The researchers found that the addition of sugarcane molasses increased the viscosity and
improved the high-temperature performance of the asphalt binder. However, the low-temperature
performance was slightly reduced. The researchers concluded that sugarcane molasses could be used as
a partial replacement for asphalt binder in hot mix asphalt (HMA) mixtures to improve their
performance (Kumar et al., 2018).

In a different study, researchers investigated the effect of using recycled glass as a partial replacement
for fine aggregate in asphalt concrete mixtures. The results showed that the use of recycled glass
improved the mechanical properties of the asphalt concrete mixtures. The researchers also found that
the use of recycled glass reduced the amount of fine aggregate required in the mixture, which can lead
to cost savings and reduced environmental impact (Abdullah et al., 2019).

In summary, the partial replacement of asphalt with sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass has
shown promise in improving the performance of asphalt pavement mixtures. The addition of sugarcane
molasses and recycled glass can improve the viscosity, storage modulus, and mechanical properties of
asphalt binders and asphalt concrete mixtures, while also reducing the amount of petroleum-based
asphalt required in the mixture. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits
and drawbacks of using sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in asphalt pavement mixtures.
3.METHODOLOGY
RESEARCH METHODS

The following research method could be considered:

Literature review: Conduct a comprehensive review of existing literature on the use of alternative
materials in asphalt mixtures and sustainable practices in road construction and maintenance.

Laboratory experimentation: Develop different asphalt mixtures with varying proportions of sugarcane
molasses and recycled glass and test their mechanical properties, including stiffness, strength, and
durability, using standard laboratory methods.

Field testing: Conduct field trials to evaluate the performance of asphalt mixtures under different traffic
loads and temperature changes, as well as the impact of using alternative materials on the environment.

Life cycle assessment: Conduct a life cycle assessment of road infrastructure to determine the
environmental impact of using alternative materials in asphalt mixtures compared to traditional
materials.

Economic analysis: Conduct an economic analysis to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of using sugarcane
molasses and recycled glass in asphalt mixtures compared to traditional materials.

Guidelines and specifications development: Develop guidelines and specifications for the use of
sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in asphalt mixtures based on the results of laboratory
experimentation, field testing, life cycle assessment, and economic analysis.

Promotion and dissemination: Promote the adoption of sustainable practices in road construction and
maintenance by disseminating the results of the research and guidelines to relevant stakeholders,
including road authorities, contractors, and policymakers.

DATA COLLECTION

Collecting data on the partial replacement of asphalt with sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass
in Kenya will involve various steps. Here are some of the steps that could be taken:
1. Conduct a literature review: This involves researching and gathering information on previous
studies related to the partial replacement of asphalt with sugarcane molasses mixed with recycled glass.
This information can be obtained from academic journals, conference proceedings, and other relevant
publications.

2. Determine the research objectives: This involves defining the specific research questions and
objectives that the study aims to address. For example, the research objectives could be to determine
the effect of varying proportions of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass on the mechanical properties
of asphalt.

3. Identify the study area: This involves selecting the location(s) where the study will be conducted.
For example, the study could be conducted on a selected road network in Kenya.

4. Collect samples: This involves collecting samples of asphalt, sugarcane molasses, and recycled
glass from different sources in Kenya. The samples should be representative of the materials that are
commonly used in road construction in the country.

5. Conduct laboratory experiments: This involves conducting experiments to determine the effect
of varying proportions of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass on the mechanical properties of
asphalt. The experiments could include tests for viscosity, stability, and durability of the asphalt mix.

6. Analyze the data: This involves analyzing the data collected from the laboratory experiments to
determine the effect of the sugarcane molasses and recycled glass on the mechanical properties of
asphalt.

7. Draw conclusions and make recommendations: This involves drawing conclusions from the
analysis of the data and making recommendations for the use of sugarcane molasses mixed with
recycled glass in road construction in Kenya.

8. Publish and disseminate the findings: This involves publishing the findings of the study in
academic journals, presenting the results at conferences, and sharing the information with relevant
stakeholders in the road construction industry in Kenya.

DATA ANALYSIS

The following steps can be taken for data analysis:

Literature review: Conduct a thorough review of existing research and studies on the use of sugarcane
molasses and recycled glass in asphalt mixtures. This will provide insights into the mechanical
properties, environmental impact, and economic feasibility of using these materials in road construction
and maintenance.
Laboratory testing: Perform laboratory tests on asphalt mixtures with varying proportions of sugarcane
molasses and recycled glass to determine their mechanical properties, including stiffness, strength, and
durability. Test methods such as the Marshall test, the indirect tensile strength test, and the dynamic
modulus test can be used.

Field testing: Conduct field testing of asphalt mixtures containing sugarcane molasses and recycled glass
to evaluate their performance under actual traffic and environmental conditions. Data such as rut depth,
cracking, and surface texture can be collected and analyzed.

Environmental impact assessment: Conduct an environmental impact assessment to evaluate the

sustainability of using sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in asphalt mixtures. This can include
analyzing the carbon footprint, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions associated with the
production and transportation of these materials.

Economic analysis: Conduct an economic analysis to evaluate the feasibility of using sugarcane molasses
and recycled glass in asphalt mixtures. This can include analyzing the cost savings associated with
reducing the amount of virgin asphalt used, as well as the cost of producing and transporting these
materials.

Guidelines and specifications: Develop guidelines and specifications for the use of sugarcane molasses
and recycled glass in asphalt mixtures based on the results of the data analysis. These guidelines can
include recommendations for the proportion of these materials to be used, as well as specifications for
testing and quality control.

Promotion of sustainable practices: Use the results of the data analysis to promote the adoption of
sustainable practices in road construction and maintenance. This can include providing training and
education to engineers and contractors, as well as advocating for policies that encourage the use of
sustainable materials in infrastructure projects.

DATA DESIGN AND SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION

The following are the data design and system implementation steps that can be taken to achieve the
desired outcomes:

1.Conduct a literature review of existing research on the use of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in
asphalt mixtures to reduce the amount of virgin asphalt used in road construction and maintenance.This
will involve identifying relevant journals, publications, and databases to collect information on the
subject matter.

2.Develop a methodology for testing the performance of asphalt mixtures with varying proportions of
sugarcane molasses and recycled glass. This will require setting up a laboratory experiment to evaluate
the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures such as stiffness, strength, and durability.

3.Conduct laboratory experiments to test the effect of different proportions of sugarcane molasses and
recycled glass on the performance of asphalt mixtures. The experiments should be designed to evaluate
the resistance of asphalt to deformation and cracking caused by traffic loads and temperature changes.

4.Analyze the results of the laboratory experiments to determine the optimal proportions of sugarcane
molasses and recycled glass that can be used to achieve the desired outcomes. This will involve using
statistical tools and techniques to analyze the data collected during the laboratory experiments.

5.Conduct an economic feasibility study to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of using sugarcane molasses
and recycled glass in asphalt mixtures. This will involve estimating the costs associated with using these
materials and comparing them to the costs associated with using virgin asphalt.

6.Develop guidelines and specifications for the use of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in asphalt
mixtures. This will involve working with industry experts and stakeholders to develop standards for the
production and use of these materials in road construction and maintenance.

7.Conduct outreach activities to promote the adoption of sustainable practices in road construction and
maintenance. This will involve organizing workshops, seminars, and training programs to educate
stakeholders on the benefits of using sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in asphalt mixtures.

8.Implement the guidelines and specifications developed for the use of sugarcane molasses and recycled
glass in asphalt mixtures. This will involve working with government agencies, contractors, and other
stakeholders to ensure that these materials are used in road construction and maintenance projects.

9.Monitor and evaluate the performance of road infrastructure constructed using sugarcane molasses
and recycled glass. This will involve conducting regular inspections and evaluations to determine the
effectiveness of these materials in improving the sustainability of road infrastructure.
TESTING AND VALIDATION TECHNIQUE

The following are the testing and validation techniques that can be used:

1. Asphalt content test: To reduce the amount of virgin asphalt used in road construction, the
asphalt content test can be used to determine the optimal amount of asphalt required for the asphalt
mixture to meet the desired properties.

2. Mix design testing: To utilize sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in a sustainable manner, mix
design testing can be carried out to determine the best combination of materials that will produce a
durable and sustainable asphalt mixture.

3. Marshall stability test: To improve the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures such as
stiffness, strength, and durability, the Marshall stability test can be conducted. This test measures the
resistance of the asphalt mixture to deformation and cracking under traffic loads and temperature
changes.

4. Indirect tensile strength test: To increase the resistance of asphalt to deformation and cracking
caused by traffic loads and temperature changes, the indirect tensile strength test can be used to
determine the strength of the asphalt mixture.

5. Life cycle assessment (LCA): To enhance the sustainability of road infrastructure by reducing the
environmental impact of construction and maintenance activities, a life cycle assessment can be
performed. This will evaluate the environmental impact of the entire life cycle of the road, from raw
material extraction to disposal.

6. Performance testing: To investigate the effect of different proportions of sugarcane molasses

and recycled glass on the performance of asphalt mixtures, performance testing can be conducted. This
will evaluate the properties of the asphalt mixture such as stiffness, strength, and durability.

7. Cost-benefit analysis: To evaluate the economic feasibility of using sugarcane molasses and
recycled glass in asphalt mixtures, a cost-benefit analysis can be carried out. This will compare the costs
of using the sustainable materials with the benefits derived from their use, such as reduced
maintenance costs and increased durability.

8. Specification development: To develop guidelines and specifications for the use of sugarcane
molasses and recycled glass in asphalt mixtures, data collected from the various testing and validation
techniques can be used to develop guidelines and specifications for their use.

9. Knowledge dissemination: To promote the adoption of sustainable practices in road

construction and maintenance, the findings of the testing and validation techniques can be
disseminated through workshops, conferences, and other knowledge-sharing platforms.
4.EXPECTED RESULTS

Based on the specific objectives, the expected results could be:

1. Reduced amount of virgin asphalt used in road construction and maintenance, resulting in
conservation of natural resources and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

2. Utilization of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in a sustainable manner, reducing waste
and promoting circular economy principles.

3. Improved mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures, resulting in longer-lasting and more

durable roads that require less frequent maintenance.

4. Increased resistance of asphalt to deformation and cracking caused by traffic loads and
temperature changes, resulting in safer and smoother roads for drivers.

5. Enhanced sustainability of road infrastructure by reducing the environmental impact of

construction and maintenance activities, resulting in cleaner air and water and improved ecosystem
health.

6. Investigated the effect of different proportions of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass on the
performance of asphalt mixtures, resulting in optimized asphalt mixtures that meet performance
requirements.

7. Evaluated the economic feasibility of using sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in asphalt
mixtures, resulting in cost-effective and sustainable road construction and maintenance practices.

8. Developed guidelines and specifications for the use of sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in
asphalt mixtures, providing industry standards for sustainable road construction and maintenance
practices.

9.Promoted the adoption of sustainable practices in road construction and maintenance, resulting in
improved sustainability and environmental stewardship in the transportation
5.REFERENCE LIST
6.APPENDICES
Work plan:

1. Literature review: Conduct an extensive review of existing research on reducing the amount of
virgin asphalt used in road construction and maintenance. Analyze the current practices, challenges, and
potential benefits of using alternative materials in asphalt mixtures.

2. Material characterization: Characterize sugarcane molasses and recycled glass to determine

their chemical and physical properties. Test their compatibility with asphalt and assess their potential to
enhance the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures.

3. Asphalt mixture design: Develop asphalt mixtures using different proportions of sugarcane
molasses and recycled glass. Evaluate the mixtures' performance through laboratory tests, including
stiffness, strength, durability, deformation, and cracking resistance.

4. Field testing: Conduct field tests on selected asphalt mixtures to validate their performance
under real-world conditions. Monitor the long-term performance of the mixtures and compare them to
traditional asphalt mixtures.

5. Environmental impact assessment: Evaluate the environmental impact of using sugarcane

molasses and recycled glass in asphalt mixtures. Consider factors such as greenhouse gas emissions,
energy consumption, and waste generation associated with the materials' production, transportation,
and use.

6. Economic analysis: Conduct a cost-benefit analysis of using sugarcane molasses and recycled
glass in asphalt mixtures. Compare the costs and benefits of using alternative materials to traditional
asphalt mixtures, taking into account the initial investment, maintenance costs, and long-term savings.

7. Guidelines and specifications development: Develop guidelines and specifications for the use of
sugarcane molasses and recycled glass in asphalt mixtures. Provide recommendations for the optimal
proportions of the materials, the appropriate mixing and production methods, and the quality control
measures.

8. Dissemination and promotion: Disseminate the findings of the study through publications,
conferences, and workshops. Promote the adoption of sustainable practices in road construction and
maintenance by engaging with stakeholders, including government agencies, contractors, and the
public.

9. Monitoring and evaluation: Monitor the adoption of sustainable practices in road construction
and maintenance and evaluate the impact of the study on the industry. Update the guidelines and
specifications as needed to reflect the latest findings and best practices.

The work plan should be executed in a phased manner, with each phase building on the previous one.
The timeline and resources required for each phase should be clearly defined and aligned with the
project's overall objectives. The plan should also include provisions for risk assessment, stakeholder
engagement, and project management.

Budget line:

To create a budget line for the partial replacement of asphalt with sugarcane molasses mixed with
recycled glass in Kenya, we will need to consider several factors such as the cost of materials, labor, and
equipment.

Firstly, let's consider the cost of materials. The cost of asphalt varies depending on the grade and
quality, but for the purpose of this example, we will assume a cost of $60 per ton. Sugarcane molasses is
a byproduct of the sugarcane industry and is relatively inexpensive at around $0.50 per liter. Recycled
glass can also be obtained at a low cost of around $20 per ton.

Next, we need to consider the cost of labor. The cost of labor in Kenya is relatively low, with an average
daily wage of around $10. However, the actual cost will depend on the number of workers required and
the duration of the project.

Finally, we need to factor in the cost of equipment. This will depend on the scale of the project, but for
the purpose of this example, we will assume the use of a small-scale mixing plant that can be rented for
around $500 per day.

Based on these estimates, we can create a budget line as follows:

Assuming the project requires the use of 100 tons of asphalt, 50,000 liters of sugarcane molasses, and
10 tons of recycled glass, and takes 10 days to complete with a team of 5 workers.

Material cost:

• Asphalt: 100 x $60 = $6,000

• Sugarcane molasses: 50,000 x $0.50 = $25,000

• Recycled glass: 10 x $20 = $200

Total material cost: $31,200

Labor cost:

• 5 workers x 10 days x $10 per day = $500

Equipment cost:

• 10 days x $500 per day = $5,000

Total cost: $36,700

This budget line can be adjusted depending on the specific requirements of the project, such as the
quantity of materials, the duration of the project, and the number of workers required. It is also
important to note that this is just an estimate and actual costs may vary depending on market
conditions and other factors.