In the bustling world of sustainable construction, a groundbreaking study led by Narakorn Suwannachote from the School of Languages and General Education at Walailak University in Thailand, has turned heads with its innovative approach to urban furniture. The research, published in the journal ‘Sustainable Structures’ which translates to ‘Sustainable Structures’ in English, explores the use of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) reinforced with waste badminton racquet fibres, offering a fresh perspective on how we can build more sustainably.
Suwannachote and his team set out to test the serviceability and structural behaviour of a new type of RAC bench. The benches, made entirely of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) with varying amounts of badminton racquet fibres, were subjected to a series of rigorous tests. The results were striking. Benches post-tensioned using an innovative Post-Tensioned Metal Strapping (PTMS) technique showed a significant increase in capacity—about 25% higher than their non-post-tensioned counterparts. This enhancement in flexural strength suggests that the PTMS technique could be a game-changer in the construction of durable, sustainable urban infrastructure. “The maximum flexural strength of the cantilever bench was improved by 5.7% for the cantilever bench with PTMS strengthening, which further enhanced the flexural behaviour compared to the bench with only 1.5% of fibres”, Suwannachote explained.
But the benefits don’t stop at strength. The study also found that the benches met code limits for human-induced vibrations, making them safe for use in public spaces. Moreover, the incorporation of glow-in-the-dark (GID) features into the benches enhanced their night-time visibility and visual appeal by up to 8 hours, adding an aesthetic and safety dimension to their functionality.
The research also delved into the long-term behaviour of these benches, conducting tests after 365 days of sustained loading. The results were promising, with finite element analyses confirming that the benches could have a potential service life of up to 20 years. This durability is crucial for urban furniture, where longevity and minimal maintenance are key considerations.
The implications of this research are vast. As cities around the world strive to become more sustainable, the use of recycled materials and innovative construction techniques will be paramount. The development of RAC benches with waste badminton racquet fibres not only reduces waste but also provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for urban spaces. “This research contributes towards the development of new applications for RAC with waste badminton racquet fibres, which can offer more sustainable solutions for the construction of urban furniture,” Suwannachote noted.
The commercial impacts for the energy sector are also noteworthy. By reducing the need for new raw materials and minimizing waste, this approach aligns with the growing trend towards circular economy principles. It also opens up new avenues for innovation in the construction industry, encouraging the use of recycled materials and sustainable practices.
As we look to the future, the possibilities are exciting. This research could pave the way for similar innovations in other areas of construction, from bridges to buildings, all while promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact. The integration of waste materials into construction projects not only addresses waste management challenges but also creates a more resilient and sustainable built environment. The study, published in ‘Sustainable Structures’, serves as a beacon for future developments in the field, inspiring others to think creatively and sustainably.
