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Utilizing Recycled PET and Mining Waste to Produce Non-Traditional Bricks for Sustainable Construction

Author

Listed:
  • Gonzalo Díaz-García

    (Research Department, César Vallejo University, Chimbote 02712, Peru)

  • Piero Diaz-Miranda

    (Department of Civil Engineering, César Vallejo University, Chimbote 02712, Peru)

  • Christian Tineo-Villón

    (Department of Civil Engineering, César Vallejo University, Chimbote 02712, Peru)

Abstract

Plastic waste, particularly polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poses a growing environmental challenge. This study investigates the feasibility of incorporating recycled PET into clay bricks as a sustainable alternative in construction. Bricks were fabricated with 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% PET content. Clay characterization included particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, and moisture content. Physical and mechanical tests evaluated dimensional variability, void percentage, warping, water absorption, suction, unit compressive strength ( f b ′ ), and prism compressive strength ( f m ′ ). Statistical analysis (Shapiro–Wilk, p < 0.05) validated the results. PET addition improved physical properties—reducing water absorption, suction, and voids—while slightly compromising mechanical strength. The 15% PET mix showed the best overall performance ( f b ′ = 24.00 kg/cm 2 ; f m ′ = 20.40 kg/cm 2 ), with uniform deformation and lower absorption (18.7%). Recycled PET enhances key physical attributes of clay bricks, supporting its use in eco-friendly construction. However, reduced compressive strength limits its structural applications. Optimizing PET particle size, clay type, and firing conditions is essential to improve load-bearing capacity. Current formulations are promising for non-structural uses, contributing to circular material strategies.

Suggested Citation

  • Gonzalo Díaz-García & Piero Diaz-Miranda & Christian Tineo-Villón, 2025. "Utilizing Recycled PET and Mining Waste to Produce Non-Traditional Bricks for Sustainable Construction," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(19), pages 1-21, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:19:p:8841-:d:1763905
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Balikis Omotola Rabiu & Mohammad Ali Mosaberpanah, 2025. "Sustainable Utilization of Waste Glass Powder and Brick Dust as Cement Replacements: Effects on Mortar Performance and Environmental Benefits," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(3), pages 1-31, February.
    2. Riya Roy & Maryam Mottaghi & Morgan Woods & Joshua M. Pearce, 2025. "Life Cycle Carbon Emissions Savings of Replacing Concrete with Recycled Polycarbonate and Sand Composite," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(3), pages 1-20, January.
    3. Nada Ashraf & Ola D. El-Monayeri & Hassan A. Hassan, 2024. "Lego-like Bricks Manufacturing Using Recycled Polyethylene (PE) and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Waste in Egypt," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(19), pages 1-16, October.
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