Concrete Mix Design using recycled PET Plastic as a Partial Replacement of the Natural Fine Aggregate

Ali, Majid (2024) Concrete Mix Design using recycled PET Plastic as a Partial Replacement of the Natural Fine Aggregate. [USQ Project]

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Abstract

In this study feasibility of using recycled PET plastics as a partial replacement for natural fine aggregates in concrete mixes was investigated by analysing workability, durability, mechanical properties and fire resistance. Three trial mixes were prepared a control mix with 0% PET, 5% PET replacement mix, and 10% PET replacement mix. The samples were cured for 7, 14 and 28 days and were tested to analyse the various properties.

Workability tests indicated that replacing natural fine aggregates with PET improved the workability of the concrete, particularly in mixes with higher PET content. Ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) tests displayed that while the control mix was of the excellent quality, the mixes with PET content were also of the good quality and were improving with the curing and 5% PET replacement mix almost nearing excellent quality.

The mechanical properties were analysed using compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength tests. The results revealed that PET replacement mixes reduced strength with the increase in the PET content, however both mixes improved with curing. Fire resistance tests showed that PET replacement mixes, experienced significant reductions in strength and durability after exposure to high temperatures.

The study concluded that partial replacement of the natural fine aggregate in concrete with recycled PET plastic is suitable for applications requiring high workability and low structural demands. The 5% PET replacement mix showed the most promise for non-critical applications, but its use in load-bearing structures or fire-prone areas is not recommended.


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Item Type: USQ Project
Item Status: Live Archive
Faculty/School / Institute/Centre: Current – Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences - School of Engineering (1 Jan 2022 -)
Supervisors: Yousif, Belal
Qualification: Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil)
Date Deposited: 06 Oct 2025 23:07
Last Modified: 06 Oct 2025 23:07
Uncontrolled Keywords: PET plastic; fine aggregate
URI: https://sear.unisq.edu.au/id/eprint/53016

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