We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Evolutionary process and mechanical properties of polymers: A comprehensive review
AI summary Read the abstract
A review of polymer evolution in construction found that epoxy resins offer superior tensile and flexural strength, while polyester and PET provide notable compressive resistance and sustainability advantages, with the review synthesizing mechanical performance data across thermosetting resins for structural application guidance. Understanding the properties and trade-offs of construction polymers is foundational for designing durable recycled plastic materials and managing polymer lifecycle to reduce microplastic generation in built environments.
The growing demand for innovative construction materials has driven the exploration of polymer-based composites due to their enhanced mechanical performance and potential environmental benefits. However, a clear understanding of the historical development, classification, and structural behavior of polymers in construction remains limited. This review aims to bridge this gap by synthesizing current knowledge on the historical evolution, mechanical benefits, chemical benefits, drawbacks and real world applications of polymers in construction. The study focuses on key thermosetting resins such as polyester, epoxy, vinyl ester, and PET and assesses their mechanical properties relevant to structural applications. To address the lack of integrated insight in the literature, the review compiles and compares data from various primary sources. Mechanical properties such as tensile, compressive, and flexural strength are evaluated to determine the suitability of each polymer for construction use. The outcomes indicate that epoxy resins demonstrate superior tensile and flexural strength, while polyester and polyethylene terephthalate PET offer notable advantages in compressive resistance and sustainability. Overall, the findings provide a consolidated understanding of polymer development and performance, offering valuable guidance for researchers and engineers aiming to enhance material efficiency, durability, and environmental responsibility in the construction industry.
More Papers Like This
Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Epoxy Mortars Made with Polyethylene and Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate) Waste
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers incorporated recycled PET and polyethylene waste into epoxy mortars, finding that plastic waste could partially replace conventional materials without significantly reducing strength properties. The modified mortars also had lower bulk density, potentially making them useful in lightweight construction applications.
Development and optimisation of sustainable recycled PET–sand composites for construction applications
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers optimized recycled PET–sand composites using a Taguchi multi-parameter design, finding that smaller sand particles and higher PET binder content together achieved compressive strengths of nearly 40 MPa and water absorption below 0.5% — mechanical performance comparable to conventional masonry — while diverting plastic waste from landfills and aquatic environments.
Evolution, Prospects, and Predicaments of Polymers in Marine Applications: A Potential Successor to Traditional Materials
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines the growing use of polymer materials in marine applications such as boat hulls, offshore structures, and underwater equipment, where their light weight and corrosion resistance offer advantages over traditional metals. Researchers also discuss the environmental downsides, including the potential release of microplastics and chemicals as these materials degrade in seawater. The study calls for developing more sustainable polymer formulations that balance performance with reduced environmental impact.
Utilization of Plastic Waste for Developing Composite Bricks and Enhancing Mechanical Properties: A Review on Challenges and Opportunities
AI summary Read the abstract
This review of research on plastic waste composite bricks found that PET has the highest recycling efficiency among plastics used for brick production and highlights the need for standardized specifications, contamination assessments, and policy frameworks to promote wider adoption.
A Step towards Sustainable Concrete with Substitution of Plastic Waste in Concrete: Overview on Mechanical, Durability and Microstructure Analysis
AI summary Read the abstract
This review evaluates the use of plastic waste as a substitute material in concrete, analyzing its effects on mechanical strength, durability, and microstructure to assess its viability as a sustainable construction approach.
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.