We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Multiscale Evaluation of Recycled Plastic Corrugated Panels for Sustainable Construction
Summary
Researchers evaluated the structural performance of corrugated panels made from 100% post-consumer recycled HDPE and polypropylene for roofing and cladding applications, finding flexural strengths of 8.4 MPa (rHDPE) and 6.3 MPa (rPP) with good durability under impact and environmental loading.
The global push for sustainable building practices has intensified the search for low-carbon, recyclable alternatives to traditional roofing materials. This study investigated the structural viability of corrugated panels fabricated from 100% post-consumer recycled HDPE and PP for roofing and cladding applications under real-world loading and environmental conditions. Promising main attributes include durability, corrosion resistance, and low environmental impact. Mechanical testing revealed a flexural strength of 8.4 MPa for rHDPE and 6.3 MPa for rPP. Under impact loading, rPP retained 53% of its initial strength, while rHDPE retained 28%, as validated by drop-weight and pendulum impact tests. Vibration testing (ASTM E1876) demonstrated that rPP exhibited 18% higher longitudinal damping, whereas rHDPE outperformed in out-of-plane vibration control. XRD and SEM-EDS confirmed distinct crystalline and morphological structures responsible for the observed behavior. Findings from this investigation, supported by prototype slab testing, confirm that integrating recycled plastics facilitates the creation of durable and sustainable building envelopes for circular construction practices.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Sustainable Development and Assessment of Low-Strength/High-Toughness Recycled Plastic Rebars for Structural Elements Under Light Loads
Researchers manufactured full-scale rebars from recycled HDPE and polypropylene for mortar-free, light-load construction applications, testing 48 samples across three diameters and demonstrating that recycled plastic rebars can meet structural requirements while addressing plastic waste.
Investigating the Effect of Photo-Oxidative Degradation on the Ageing Resistance of the Car Mudflaps Manufactured with Post-Production High-Density Polyethylene Wastes
Automotive mudflaps made from recycled high-density polyethylene were subjected to accelerated aging tests to assess their durability. The study measured changes in mechanical properties including tensile strength, impact toughness, and hardness after UV and thermal aging. Results show that recycled plastic can maintain acceptable performance in automotive applications, supporting circular economy goals.
Potential Applications of Different Forms of Recycled Plastics as Construction Materials—A Review
This review examined potential applications of different forms of recycled plastics (granules, powder, fiber, aggregate) as construction materials, identifying suitable recycling methodologies and construction products with performance benefits such as improved toughness and reduced weight.
Recycling Waste Plastics into Plastic-Bonded Sand Interlocking Blocks for Wall Construction in Developing Countries
Researchers investigated the use of waste polyethylene mixed with sand to produce plastic-bonded interlocking blocks for wall construction in developing countries, reporting on production methods, mechanical properties including compressive strengths of approximately 15 MPa, and failure mechanisms of three block wall system designs. The plastic-bonded blocks outperformed conventional sandcrete blocks, demonstrating a viable pathway for recycling waste plastics into construction materials.
Modulus of Rupture and Modulus of Elasticity in Recycling FRP
This study assessed the modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity of recycled fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) material, finding that recycled FRP retains adequate mechanical properties for certain structural applications. The research addressed environmental concerns around FRP ship waste by characterizing the potential for material reuse.