Abstract
This paper proposes an alternative recycling method to divert commingled post-consumer plastics away from dump sites through the production of an environmentally safe construction material. The engineering and service properties of the proposed new recycled plastic waste composite was evaluated and presented. The test results revealed that the new material is suitable for use as pedestrian and light traffic paving brick. The compressive strength was 7.25% higher than the ASTM limit. The composite material exhibited a high modulus of rupture compared to clay bricks and industrial floor bricks indicating its potential for use in structural service requirements. The abrasion resistance of the composite material was 70% higher than the Egyptian standard limit for cement tiles. The composite material exhibited very low density and water absorption rate in comparison to cement tiles and paving units. In addition, the material showed high chemical resistance to acidic and alkaline attack allowing for its use as industrial flooring. Other service conditions were also investigated.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 339-350 |
| Journal | Canadian Metallurgical Quarterly |
| Volume | 44 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Jan 2005 |
| Externally published | Yes |