Discarded face masks could pave roads, Australian engineers find

Engineers at RMIT University have unveiled a novel approach to address the mounting problem of face mask waste by incorporating shredded masks into asphalt and concrete for road construction.

The research demonstrates that masks can be effectively blended with recycled concrete aggregate to create enhanced road materials. According to the study, approximately 3 million discarded masks could be used in the construction of a single kilometre of two-lane road, offering a practical application for one of the most problematic waste streams generated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The discovery comes as governments and waste management authorities worldwide grapple with the environmental impact of billions of disposable masks that have accumulated since 2020. Most face masks end up in landfills, where they take decades to decompose, while some contribute to ocean plastic pollution.

The RMIT team's findings suggest that integrating recycled masks into road construction could serve a dual purpose: reducing mask waste while potentially improving the structural properties of road materials. The researchers indicate that further testing and refinement of the method could lead to wider adoption in the construction industry.

If implemented at scale, the technique could provide a sustainable solution for managing accumulated mask waste in countries across South and Southeast Asia, where mask usage remains prevalent.