PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF WASTE PLASTIC-SAND COMPOSITES: A REVIEW

Abstract

The rapid escalation of non-biodegradable plastic waste, particularly High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polypropylene (PP), and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), has emerged as a critical global environmental challenge, contributing to soil infertility and marine pollution. Concurrently, the construction industry faces a depletion of natural resources like river sand and clay. This review paper investigates the feasibility of waste plastic-sand composites as a sustainable alternative to conventional masonry units. By synthesizing experimental data from various studies, this paper analyzes the mechanical and physical properties of bricks manufactured through thermal-mechanical processes using varied plastic-to-sand ratios (ranging from 1:1 to 1:4). Key performance indicators such as compressive strength, water absorption, and fire resistance are evaluated. Findings consistently demonstrate that plastic-sand bricks exhibit significantly lower water absorption (often <1%) and comparable or superior compressive strength (up to 25 MPa) relative to traditional clay bricks. Furthermore, this review explores advanced characterization through software-based stress analysis (ANSYS) and the environmental benefits of diverting plastic from landfills into the circular economy. The study concludes that while these composites offer a high-strength, lightweight, and cost-effective solution for structural and non-structural applications, further research into fire retardancy and long-term UV degradation is essential for widespread industrial adoption.