Harnessing earthquake generated glass and plastic waste for sustainable construction

Abstract

On February 6, 2023 Türkiye witnessed two massive earthquakes of magnitudes 7.6 and 7.8 centred near Gaziantep Province. The aftermaths of the earthquakes were devastating. Thousands of people were dead under the rubble of collapsed buildings and millions displaced. The challenge was the disposal of tons of debris generated due to the destruction of structures and roads, and the construction of new buildings for relocation of displaced people. Not only being uneconomical, the disposal and new construction also became a major environmental concern. A solution to this problem lies in the constructive disposal of earthquake wastes i.e., the utilization of waste materials from debris generated after an earthquake in order to ensure its proper and beneficial disposition. The article provides a two problems one solution technique in this regard. Research techniques and outcomes of modification of glass and plastic waste in the industries for the manufacture of good quality construction materials and the subsequent use of these materials in construction are reviewed. Further analysis is carried out to determine whether the application of this knowledge in practical field ensures that both environmental and economical requirements are met.