We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Design of a methodology for the elaboration of ecological bricks incorporating low-density polyethylene
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers in Mexico designed a methodology for producing ecological building bricks that incorporate low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic waste — the type found in plastic bags — which is very difficult to recycle through conventional means. The bricks met structural performance requirements while diverting plastic waste from landfills and the environment. Incorporating difficult-to-recycle plastics into construction materials offers a way to prevent them from fragmenting into microplastics in the environment.
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is generally found in the form of bags that are used to pack or transport merchandise; however, the proper disposal of this non-biodegradable material has been a great challenge, since, worldwide, it is calculated that only 9%, of the 9 billion tons that have been produced so far, has been recycled. In Mexico, it is estimated that 8 million tons of this material will be generated annually and only 14% will be recycled. On the other hand, the recycling of these residues, as an aggregate in construction materials, is considered an environmentally sustainable application. The objective of this article is to develop a methodology for the design of ecological concrete bricks incorporating LDPE from design as part of its aggregates, which will be obtained from articles with results presented, thus seeking to analyze the best design; this as an alternative to bricks commonly found in the construction industry. Although bricks made only with LDPE and sand have given good results, in relation to the use of plastic in intervals of 25 to 50%, it is expected that by adding Portland cement, they will have better physical and mechanical properties.
More Papers Like This
Recycling of Polyethylene and Polypropylene Waste to Produce Plastic Bricks
AI summary Read the abstract
This paper is not primarily about microplastics — it tests whether recycled PE and PP plastic pellets can replace conventional materials in construction bricks, with a focus on mechanical performance rather than pollution impacts.
Lego-like Bricks Manufacturing Using Recycled Polyethylene (PE) and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Waste in Egypt
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers tested the use of recycled polyethylene and PET plastic waste as raw materials for manufacturing Lego-like construction bricks in Egypt, addressing plastic waste accumulation and its degradation into microplastics. The recycled bricks showed adequate structural properties, demonstrating a viable pathway for diverting plastic waste from the environment into durable construction materials.
Assessment of Plastic-Infused Concrete Bricks and Their Suitability for Interlocking: Mechanical, Durability, and Environmental Perspectives
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers tested plastic-infused concrete bricks as a way to repurpose plastic waste in construction materials, evaluating their mechanical strength and suitability for different building applications. The study explores whether incorporating plastic waste into durable materials can reduce the plastic entering the environment as microplastics.
Recycling/reuse of plastic waste as construction material for sustainable development: a review
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reviewed how waste plastic can be incorporated into construction materials — as binders, aggregates, or cement substitutes in bricks, tiles, concrete, and roads — finding that plastic-modified materials often show competitive strength properties while simultaneously diverting plastic waste from landfills.
Utilization of Plastic Waste and Construction Demolition Waste in Sustainable Brick and Tile Manufacturing
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers turned plastic trash and construction rubble into bricks and tiles, finding they're strong, lightweight, and durable enough for building use. This matters because it offers a practical way to keep plastic waste out of landfills and nature—where it would otherwise break down into microplastics that contaminate soil, water, and eventually our food and bodies—while also cutting down on mining raw materials for construction.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.