Blending Plastic Waste and M-Sand to Produce Sustainable Building Blocks
摘要
This research unveils an inventive strategy to combat India’s considerable plastic waste predicament, standing at 3.4 million metric tonnes yearly, compounded by inadequate recycling capabilities. India has witnessed a substantial uptick in plastic usage, registering a compounded annual growth rate of 9.7% over five years. The study concentrates on incorporating plastic waste into construction, particularly accentuating masonry bricks—a sector that has received comparatively scant attention. Employing a mix ratio of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and M-Sand in a 1:2 proportion, the research encompasses material collection, preparation of brick moulds, casting, mixing, moulding, and testing. The research scrutinizes the properties of these plastic bricks, covering dimensionality, density, water absorption, compressive strength, and flexural characteristics. Outcomes indicate that these plastic bricks showcase properties akin to various brick types available in the market. Particularly noteworthy is their low water absorption rate, positioning them as a preferred choice for water-retaining structures in comparison to traditional brick variants. This research introduces an inventive resolution to address plastic waste challenges while championing sustainable construction practices.