We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Effects of waste polyethylene terephthalate bottle particles on cement-bonded wood boards
Summary
Researchers found that grinding up plastic water bottles and mixing them into cement-based wood boards (used in construction) actually made the boards stronger, more water-resistant, and less likely to warp compared to boards made only from wood. This matters because it offers a practical way to reuse plastic waste in building materials instead of it ending up in landfills or breaking down into microplastics in the environment — though this study focused on building performance, not on whether these boards release microplastics into homes over time.
The objective of this study is to evaluate the potential use of waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles as a partial replacement for spruce wood particles in cement-bonded wood boards to reduce natural wood consumption and promote plastic waste valorization within a circular economy framework. Boards were produced by replacing spruce wood particles with waste PET bottle particles (0.3–0.5 cm × 1.5–3 cm) at ratios of 0–25%, using filler-to-cement ratios of 1:2 and 1:3. The results indicated that PET particles reduced moisture content, water absorption (44%), and thickness swelling (75%), while increasing board density. PET caused a 37% increase in modulus of rupture and a 47% increase in modulus of elasticity. Scanning electron microscope revealed poor interfacial bonding and limited mechanical interlocking between PET particles and cement hydration products. Thermogravimetric/derivative thermogravimetric, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and energy-dispersive spectrometer indicated that low PET content promoted cement hydration products, whereas excessive PET reduced cement hydration.