Utilization of waste plastics in concrete

Plastic wastes are a great threat to human and natural health. In 2001, 100 million tons of plastics were consumed in the world. The aim of this experimental study is to gain the plastic wastes back into economy by using them as concrete additives, to develop concrete with improved mechanical properties, to protect human and environmental health. In this work, waste polyethylene and polypropylene plastic fibers were used in concrete at different volume percentage. 40 mixtures were designed. Flexural and compression tests were performed for each mixture. Flexural strength, flexural toughness, compressive strength and compressive toughness values were determined. In general, waste plastic fibers decreased compressive strength, did not affect flexural strength, while increased flexural toughness considerably. The concrete with improved mechanical properties will reduce the structural damages under earthquake and other loads and increase the safety of life and property. The use of concrete with plastic waste additives will prolong the life of structures. The costs of repair, maintenance and renovation of the structures will decrease.