Experimental Investigation on the Properties of Concrete Containing Waste HDPE Plastic and Copper Slag as Coarse and Fine Aggregates Replacement

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Resource concerns have become apparent globally, particularly in the construction sector due to the exploitation of resources for developing globalized infrastructures. This has led to challenges, especially in sourcing construction materials. Consequently, numerous studies have focused on waste management strategies with eco-efficient parameters, particularly in the realm of construction aggregates. While previous research has explored alternatives for these aggregates, there remains ample opportunity for further investigation on the effectiveness and potential of alternative materials in construction projects to promote sustainable resource management. The research aims to fill this gap by examining the impact of using alternatives for both fine and coarse aggregates, specifically copper slag and waste HDPE. This study investigates the effects of partially incorporating waste HDPE plastic and Copper slag on the strength and sustainability of concrete, with the goal of evaluating their viability as sustainable alternatives in construction materials in the construction sector. Three percentages of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Plastic (10%, 20%, and 30%) and Two Percentages (30% and 40 %) of copper slag were incorporated with the weight of Coarse aggregate and Fine aggregate respectively. Comparisons of conventional concrete with concrete incorporating HDPE waste & copper slag as coarse aggregate and fine aggregates were conducted. From investigation it was found that concrete incorporating 10% of HDPE and 40% of copper slag cured for 7 and 28 days had 10% increase in compressive strength compared to the nominal mix and flexural strength 25% and 40% more than nominal mix. The concrete incorporating 10% of HDPE and 30% of copper slag had 18% reduction in split tensile strength for cylinders cured for 7 days and 55% increase in split tensile strength for cylinders cured for 28 days.