Title: Strength Properties of Polymer Concrete Made with Resins Based on Recycled Plastic Waste

Author(s): K. S. Rebeiz and David W. Fowler

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 166

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 79-92

Keywords: modulus of elasticity; plastics, polymers, and resins; strength; polyethylene; polymer concrete; reinforcing steels; wastes; stress-strain relationships; Materials Research

DOI: 10.14359/1351

Date: 12/1/1996

Abstract:
Recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic wastes could be used in the production of unsaturated polyester resins. If specially formulated, these unsaturated polyester resins could, in turn, be mixed with inorganic aggregates to produce polymer concrete (PC). The results of an extensive research confirm that PC materials using resins based on recycled PET are comparable in strength to conventional PC materials. Resins based on recycled PET could also easily be altered to achieve a relatively wide range in the strength and flexibility properties of the PC, depending on the intended use of the material. PC using resins based on recycled PET may be utilized in the repair and overlay of portland cement concrete structures or in the production of various precast products, such as utility, transportation, and building components. The recycling of PET in PC would help decrease the cost of PC products, save energy, and alleviate an environmental problem posed by plastic wastes.