Eco-Friendly Paving Blocks : Compressive Strength and Water Absorption Analysis Using Recycled PET Plastic Waste
Meilandy Purwandito (a*), Muhammad Zacky Ardhyan (a), Fadillah Aqil Fathin (a), Ellida Novita Lydia (a)

a) Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology Universitas Samudra, Langsa, 24416, Indonesia

Abstract

Environmental sustainability has become an increasingly important focus in modern construction practices. One of the major challenges is managing the growing amount of PET plastic waste, which significantly contributes to environmental pollution. Recycling this waste into construction materials, such as paving blocks, presents a sustainable solution by reducing plastic waste while also lessening the reliance on non-renewable resources. This study examines the compressive strength and water absorption properties of eco-friendly paving blocks made using recycled PET plastic waste. Three mixtures containing 35%, 45%, and 55% PET waste were tested according to SNI 03-0691-1996 standards. A total of 18 samples, each measuring 50 mm x 50 mm x 50 mm, were evaluated. The results indicated that paving blocks with 35% PET waste achieved a compressive strength of 36.82 MPa and a water absorption rate of 0.60%, placing them within quality standard A and making them suitable for road surfacing. Meanwhile, blocks containing 45% and 55% PET waste achieved compressive strengths of 27.81 MPa and 21.26 MPa, with water absorption rates of 0.46% and 0.36%, respectively, classifying them under quality standard B, which is suitable for pedestrian walkways. The findings suggest that PET plastic waste can be effectively recycled into paving blocks, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional construction materials with applications varying based on the percentage of PET used.

Keywords: PET plastic waste, paving blocks, compressive strength, water absorptiont

Topic: Technology and Engineering