Annotated Summary

Rebeiz, K. S., Fowler, D. W., & Paul, D. R. (1993). Recycling Plastics in Polymer Concrete for Construction Applications . Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering , 237-248. doi: 10.1061/(ASCE)0899-1561(1993)5:2(237)

This article focuses on the adoption of recycled plastic in polymer concrete for construction uses. The article stated that the polymer concrete is a composite material that is robust and lasting, thereby making it a crucial role in the sustainability of infrastructures. Researches had been carried out on incorporating recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) materials in polymer concrete which would potentially reduce waste problems posed by plastics. The process of recycling PET materials could be costly due to the removal of impurities in the material. By reusing PET materials in polymer concrete is an advantageous approach as these materials do not require any forms of purification, thus saving the extra costs in recycling the material. The article mentioned that various types of unsaturated polyester materials were tested for their strength and property behavior. The mixed design of polymer concrete with PET materials was enhanced for its workability, strength, and economy, based on its intended application. From its durability property testing, results proved to be desirable in terms of its chemical resistance and water absorption. Low water absorption is essential as polymer concrete overlays will be used in pavements and bridges where it could counter the intrusion of water and salts. The article also stated the applications of polymer concrete in the construction industry where polymer concretes are used as overlays, for repair works, and as precast components. The polymer concrete overlays strengthen the structure as it offers a firm, low-permeability and acid-resistant surface, where it is mainly used in pavements and bridges. In terms of repair works, polymer concretes are useful in reinstating the structure’s integrity with its fast cure time. As precast components, given its strength and durability, it could be designed into thinner sections which reduce dead load thereby minimizing erection costs. The authors’ aim with this article seems to suggest the implementation of polymer concrete with recycled plastic in the construction industry as it proved to be potentially useful based on its excellent material property.

*Edited 12/04/19 11:38pm 

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