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@article{184595,
        author = {Bhavana K and M S Sunil Kumar and Basanth J K},
        title = {SUSTAINABLE USE OF RECYCLED PLASTIC AS INTERLOCKING PAVER BLOCKS},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {12},
        number = {4},
        pages = {2178-2721},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=184595},
        abstract = {The escalating accumulation of plastic waste has become a critical environmental challenge, driven by its resistance to natural degradation and the relentless pace of global production. In response, this study explores a practical and sustainable approach to repurposing plastic waste by incorporating it into the production of interlocking paver blocks—an alternative to traditional concrete paving units.
Three commonly discarded plastic types—high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polypropylene (PP)—were selected for their availability and structural potential. These materials were mechanically shredded, thermally processed, and combined with sand and cement in a 2:1:1 ratio to form composite paver blocks. The fabricated blocks underwent rigorous testing to evaluate their compressive strength, water absorption, flexural performance, and overall cost efficiency.
The results were promising: the blocks achieved compressive strengths ranging from 12 to 15 MPa, exhibited water absorption rates below 1%, and demonstrated a 15–20% reduction in production costs compared to conventional concrete blocks. These findings suggest that recycled plastic-based paver blocks not only meet essential performance standards but also offer a viable, cost-effective solution for sustainable construction.
By transforming plastic waste into durable infrastructure components, this study contributes to circular economy practices and highlights the potential for scalable adoption in urban development and environmental management.},
        keywords = {Recycled plastic, Interlocking paver blocks, Sustainable construction, Waste management, Compressive strength},
        month = {September},
        }