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Use of Plastic Waste in Concrete : A Comprehensive Review on Strength of Concrete Mixture with Different Material

Open MIND 2026
Vansh Gautam, Mr . Atulya Kumar, Dr. Rakesh Kumar Pandey, Supril Sahu, Shah Afzal Ali, Yash Gupta, Aryan Sharma

Summary

This review paper looks at how recycled plastic waste (like plastic bottles) can be mixed into concrete for building construction, finding that small amounts can actually make concrete stronger and lighter while keeping plastic out of landfills. This matters for human health because reducing plastic waste means less of it breaking down into microplastics that end up in our soil, water, and eventually our bodies — though more research is needed to confirm plastic-infused concrete is safe and durable long-term before it's widely used.

The rapid increase in plastic waste has become a serious environmental concern due to its non-biodegradable nature and harmful impact on ecosystems. This study explores the utilization of plastic waste as a partial replacement material in concrete production, aiming to address both waste management and sustainable construction challenges. Various forms of plastic, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS), are incorporated into concrete either as aggregates, fibers, or fillers. The research examines the effects of plastic addition on the mechanical and durability properties of concrete, including compressive strength, tensile strength, workability, and resistance to environmental degradation. Results indicate that while excessive plastic content may reduce strength, an optimum percentage can enhance properties like ductility, crack resistance, and lightweight characteristics. Furthermore, the use of plastic waste in concrete reduces landfill burden, conserves natural resources, and contributes to eco-friendly construction practices. This study concludes that plastic-modified concrete can be a viable alternative in non-structural and certain structural applications, promoting sustainable development while mitigating environmental pollution.

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