Title : Cementitious matrix composite materials incorporating plastic waste
Abstract:
Composite materials, understood as a mixture of two or more components that form a new material with its own characteristics, are offered by nature in their natural state. There are also artificially produced composite materials obtained from the reasoned combination of the best properties of their components, preserving their individual chemical identity to achieve qualities not found in the components separately. Concrete is an example of this.
Given the need for other materials with properties insufficient or absent in traditional composite materials, countless research projects have emerged worldwide. The best properties of each constituent element are combined to improve resistance to compression, fracture, bending, corrosion, wear, and fatigue; stiffness; specific weight; temperature susceptibility; conductivity; and thermal and acoustic insulation. The properties of composite materials depend on the characteristics of the constituent phases, their relative proportions, and the geometry of the dispersed phase, such as the shape, size, distribution, and orientation of the particles.
There is a noticeable and uncontrolled emergence of new materials that surpass conventional ones, but at the same time, there is a reduction in the environmental impact of their production, use, and final disposal. These innovative materials have incorporated the principle of reducing greenhouse gases, environmental impact, and energy consumption throughout their life cycle. Construction materials made with components that, through reuse, cease to be waste and become raw materials have contributed to environmental preservation. Research is based on the implementation of waste materials such as wood, cork, eggshells, peanut shells, metal fibers, straw, and polymers that are incorporated into or totally or partially replace the dispersed phase of the material.
The use of thermoplastic polymers stems from the challenges of analyzing their complex life cycle, from oil extraction to waste. In this final stage, the material's inherent advantages (being impermeable and non-degradable) become serious problems. Recycling, therefore, is practically an obligation. Mechanical recycling converts it into flakes, granules, or powder. These are then sorted, shredded, and washed for subsequent transformation into new products.
Another potential use for plastic waste is in the case of the sheaths from electrical, internet, or telecommunications cables. The challenges posed by cable waste are increasingly recognized due to their environmental implications and long decomposition times. The advantage of using them compared to other types of waste plastics is the limited risk of undesirable impurities. Residual sheaths from electrical cables are used to incorporate or replace some of the component materials in cementitious matrix composites.
