In the bustling city of Bamenda, Cameroon, a unique approach to pavement construction is taking shape, one that could revolutionize how we think about waste management and infrastructure development. Bertrand Tatoh Aziwo, a researcher at the Local Materials Promotion Authority and Northwest Regional Centre for Research and Innovation, has been leading a groundbreaking study on the use of plastic waste as a binder in pavement blocks. This innovative method not only addresses the growing problem of plastic waste but also offers a sustainable solution for constructing durable and cost-effective pavements.
The study, recently published in Engineering Science and Technology, an International Journal, delves into the geotechnical properties of plastic-bonded pavement blocks produced by artisanal means. Aziwo and his team explored various aggregates and plastic waste combinations to determine the optimal mix for achieving superior geotechnical properties.
The results are nothing short of impressive. The researchers found that a combination of washed weathered granite sand, basalt quarry sand, and basalt gravel, bonded with 27.5% polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic waste, yielded an average compressive strength of 32.97 MPa, a water absorption rate of 2.27%, and an abrasion index of 0.07. These values meet the stringent requirements set by international standards such as ASTM C-902-22, NF EN 1338:2004, and SNI 03-0691-1996, making the blocks suitable for pedestrian and light vehicular traffic.
Aziwo emphasized the significance of these findings, stating, “The geotechnical properties are influenced by the nature and size of the aggregate, the type and amount of plastic binder, and the production method.” This insight highlights the importance of finding the right balance between these factors to achieve optimal results. The study also underscores the potential for artisanal production methods to play a crucial role in creating high-quality, sustainable construction materials.
The implications of this research are far-reaching, particularly for the energy sector. As infrastructure development continues to expand, the demand for sustainable and cost-effective construction materials will only increase. By utilizing plastic waste as a binder, the energy sector can significantly reduce its environmental footprint while enhancing the durability and longevity of its infrastructure.
Moreover, the findings could pave the way for future developments in the field. As Aziwo noted, “Finding the optimal plastic-binder content for a given aggregate and plastic type is key in achieving optimal geotechnical properties.” This suggests that further research and experimentation with different plastic types and aggregate combinations could lead to even more innovative and sustainable construction solutions.
In a world grappling with the challenges of waste management and sustainable development, Aziwo’s research offers a beacon of hope. By turning plastic waste into a valuable resource, we can not only build stronger, more durable pavements but also contribute to a cleaner, greener future. As the world continues to seek sustainable solutions, the insights from this study could shape the future of construction and infrastructure development, particularly in regions where artisanal production methods are prevalent. The study’s findings, published in Engineering Science and Technology, an International Journal, underscore the potential for this approach to transform the way we think about waste and construction, offering a glimpse into a more sustainable and innovative future.