The Effect of Cement Replacement with Plastic Bag Wastes (PE) and Polymer Fiber on the Concrete Performance

Abstract

Plastic bag wastes (PE) are used to improve the workability of concrete and expected to reduce the plastic wastes in our environment. Polymer products such as synthetic fibers, plastics and rubbers are belonged to petrochemical compound and considered as non-biodegradable materials. One way of reducing the plastic wastes is by utilizing the plastic wastes in the production of concrete. This study investigates the dry density properties of concrete that utilize plastic wastes and polymer fiber to replace the cement, followed by finding the compressive, tensile and flexural strength of the concrete and finally, to compare the performance of concrete that utilize plastic wastes and polymer fiber vs. concrete with plastic wastes only. An extensive experimental study has been performed by utilizing the plastic wastes in concrete using a percentage of 10%, 20% and 30% and polymer fiber with percentage of 2%, 4% and 6% respectively. Results have showed the tendency of lower density in the polymer modified concrete. The utilization of waste polymer in the replacement of cement reduces compressive and flexural strength of concrete. This is probably due to bridging action provided by the fibers which absorbed more energy and prevent the sudden failure of the concrete. On the other hand, lower mechanical properties of the modified concrete that used plastic wastes and polymer fibers have been recorded in the study.

Investigation of the Critical Factors Influencing Low-Cost Green Sustainable Housing Projects in Iraq

“…The agricultural plant with high silicon attracts less insects and animals with highly insulting properties. The reed is an excellent in nature and practices in the housing construction in the past especially in the countries with hot weather due to the relative durability and flexibility [29]. The durability of the reed is lower than wood and cannot be used in the modern construction.…”

“…The sustainability concept has become the key to the housing industry [29]. The increasing concerns about the sustainability of modern consumer lifestyles in the housing industry have led a number of professionals to seek for themselves different models of sustainable developments that are less demanding of resources.…”