Plastic Waste for Concrete Mixture: Advanced Strategies and Solutions

In recent years, various waste recycling strategies have emerged emphasizing the utilization of plastic waste in concrete mixtures. This practice offers a dual advantage by decreasing the demand for traditional aggregates, like sand and gravel, or lightweight aggregates while mitigating plastic accumulation in landfills and oceans, promoting a circular economy. Although high plastic content may worsen mechanical characteristics, proper mix designs can optimize concrete containing plastic aggregates to be lighter and beneficial for weight-sensitive applications. This study investigates the influence of plastic waste on concrete mechanical characteristics, incorporating different types of plastic waste in varying percentages to identify potential applications. Experimental results indicate that incorporating plastic waste does not significantly compromise concrete strength. Despite promising findings, challenges associated with using plastic waste in concrete must be addressed to optimize this practice and overcome drawbacks. These efforts align with sustainable waste management and eco-friendly construction practices, underscoring the importance of refining the use of plastic waste in concrete.