Abstract
In our modern, fast-paced life, plastic is a versatile material essential to our economy; daily life is unthinkable without it. However, there are serious downsides for the environment and health, which are becoming more and more stark in our society, and the recycling of plastic offers a partial solution to these widespread problems. The present work delves into the environmental assessment of fibre-reinforced concrete specimens, made with recycled plastic fibres from food packaging waste. Leaching tank tests for the evaluation of the long-term release of pollutant elements, identification of leaching mechanisms, and the diffusion process of contaminants into the environment were conducted on fibre reinforced concrete. The results showed that the incorporation of the recycled plastic fibres, classified as non-hazardous, did not release relevant levels of any potential harmful element incorporated in concrete. Moreover, low mobility was detected in the studied elements and different release mechanisms were identified through long-term diffusion leaching tests. Hence, the environmental feasibility of the incorporation of recycled plastic fibre in concrete was proven. This study strengthens the objectives set out by the Circular Economy Action Plan, which includes the European Strategy for Plastics and aims to, among other things, boost the market for recycled plastics.
Highlights
Facing the challenge of reducing the environmental impact resulting from our economic and social activities is a priority at all levels
There are numerous types of waste that are being generated in high quantities but, from an environmental point of view, they are not reused at acceptable rates. This is the case for plastic wastes coming from plastic food packaging, which is the subject of the present study
The present study aims to make a practical contribution to environmental sustainability and the circular economy, as it is focused on concrete made with non-commercial plastic fibres for reinforcement
Summary
Facing the challenge of reducing the environmental impact resulting from our economic and social activities is a priority at all levels. The waste that is generated daily across the world is known This waste has been studied in depth and new alternatives for recycling have granted some of its parts a second life cycle, e.g., recycled aggregates from construction and demolition waste, bottom ash from biomass combustion, or ash from solid urban waste. All of these examples refer to recycled materials that can be applied to engineering infrastructure. There are numerous types of waste that are being generated in high quantities but, from an environmental point of view, they are not reused at acceptable rates This is the case for plastic wastes coming from plastic food packaging, which is the subject of the present study.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
