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Evaluation of High-Strength Plastics in Urban Furniture: A Comparison of Materials and their Use in Particular Public Spaces
Summary
Testing of high-density plastic alloys incorporating recycled HDPE spheres, PVC fibers, and cement at 3–4% dosages produced a hybrid material with 22% greater elasticity, improved crack resistance, and enhanced water management for use in urban street furniture. Durable applications for recycled plastic reduce the quantity of plastic waste available to fragment into environmental microplastics.
Street furniture in public spaces in high-risk areas meets two fundamental requirements for its designation: exposure to extreme climates and adverse weather conditions such as floods or landslides. Therefore, this article is based on an evaluation of the materials currently used in street furniture in high-risk areas, taking as a case study the informal settlement of the Sergio Toral Cooperative in Guayaquil. The overall objective of the study is to assess the current condition of the materials and propose solutions using high-density plastics to improve their long-term resistance and maintenance. In conclusion, it was determined that, with varying dosages of plastic alloys (1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, and 5%) and the addition of recycled HDPE plastic spheres, PVC fibers, and cement, the best results were obtained at the 3% and 4% dosages, particularly in sunlight, and with increased water absorption and dissipation. A hybrid material with absorbent and waterproofing properties was developed, resulting in a material more resistant to cracking and breakage, and with a 22% increase in its elastic properties.