The Physical and Mechanical Properties of Recycled Plastic Waste Paving Blocks for Construction of Non-Motorized Transport (NMT)

Abstract

The study focused on determining the appropriate partial mix of plastic waste as a replacement of aggregates in Recycled Plastic Waste Paving Blocks (RPWPB) production for the construction of Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) facilities. The plastic waste, quarry dust, and ballast were graded through a sieve analysis to help determine the particle distribution of their particles. The study began with an initial mix ratio of 1:1.7:3.75 as cement: fine aggregate: coarse aggregates. The paving block made from recycled plastic waste with quarry dust and ballast met the specifications required by KS 827:2003. The samples prepared based on the attained optimal mix design were cured for 7, 14, 21, and 28 days and tested in accordance with different BS standards to determine their physical and mechanical properties. A compressive strength of 33 Mpa and 50 Mpa was attained for fully cured samples made with shredded and pulverized plastic waste, respectively. The water absorption was attained at 6%; thus, the proposed paving blocks are suitable for NMT facilities. The study recommended future studies on using plastic as a binder to eradicate the use of cement and other natural products