Study of mechanical properties of multilayer composite plastic blocks with various materials

Abstract

Plastic waste is considered a global environmental disaster due to its extensive negative impacts on ecosystems, human health, and the overall well-being of the planet. Approximately 91% of plastic waste, including multi-layer plastic (MLP), is yet to be recycled and ends up in the landfill, incinerated or in the environment. MLP can be used as a construction material since it exhibits the necessary characteristics. This study evaluated the mechanical properties of multilayer plastic (MLP) composite blocks as a wall material. Two types of composite plastic blocks were tested: one made entirely of MLP and the other composed of MLP (80%) and mixed material (20%). The mixed material included sawdust powder, stone dust, and cement mixed with sand. Tests were conducted to measure the compressive strength, water absorption, and fire resistance of the blocks. The MLP composite block mixed with cement and sand in a ratio of 1:5 exhibited the highest compressive strength at 9.43 MPa, while the 100% MLP block had the lowest compressive strength at 2.73 MPa. The MLP composite block mixed with sawdust showed the highest water absorption at 11.35%, while the 100% MLP block had the lowest water absorption at 0.96%. The 100% MLP composite block ignited and melted within 2 minutes during the fire test, while the MLP composite block mixed with cement and sand did not ignite during 10 minutes of burning. It was concluded that the composite blocks containing 100% MLP do not meet the requirements for wall construction. This study also found that 80% MLP mixed with 20% cement and sand in a ratio of 1:5 exhibits the best mechanical properties among all blocks. MLP content with a considerable portion of each plastic composite block product will help reduce plastic waste in the environment.

Keywords

• multilayer plastic
• composite blocks
• material performance
• sustainable material
• alternative wall material