EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION ON THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE WITH PARTIAL REPLACEMENT OF FINE AGGREGATE BY PLASTIC WASTE

Abstract

This study presents an experimental investigation on the mechanical properties of concrete with partial replacement of fine aggregate by plastic waste. The increasing demand for natural river sand and the environmental issues associated with plastic waste disposal have led to the exploration of sustainable alternatives in concrete production. In this research, waste plastic materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and other recyclable plastics are processed into fine particles and used as a partial replacement for sand in concrete. Concrete mixes are prepared by replacing fine aggregate with plastic waste at varying percentages, and the mechanical properties of the resulting concrete are evaluated. The study focuses on parameters such as compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength, and workability of concrete at different curing periods (7, 14, and 28 days). The experimental results are compared with conventional concrete to assess performance. The results indicate that the inclusion of plastic waste reduces the density of concrete and affects workability. An optimum percentage of plastic replacement is identified at which the concrete exhibits satisfactory strength and improved durability characteristics. Beyond this limit, the strength properties tend to decrease due to weak bonding between plastic particles and the cement matrix. However, the use of plastic waste contributes to sustainable construction by reducing environmental pollution and conserving natural resources. The study concludes that partial replacement of fine aggregate with plastic waste is a viable approach for producing eco-friendly concrete suitable for non-structural and lightweight applications