Characterization of a polypropylene and polyethylene compound for the production of bricks in non-structural walls

Abstract

This paper investigates the feasibility of using recycled plastic composed of polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), as a basis for the fabrication of plastic bricks for non-structural walls starting from the material characterization. The deformation properties of plastic bricks were evaluated under the application of compression, flexural and traction forces; the thermal analysis of the material was carried out by means of the ignition test, differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and its water ab-sorption capacity was also tested. Satisfactory results were obtained in the tests carried out; It was found that the compressive strength of the material complies with the requirements of standard specifications for conventional bricks (clay - concrete), and the physicochemical properties of the composite meet specifications of material for use in non-structural walls; which makes it an innovative material with enormous potential for use in the construction sector.