In the ever-evolving landscape of civil engineering, a groundbreaking study led by Mary C. Ngoma from the John A. Reif, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, has shed new light on the potential of plastic-based waste in geomaterial stabilization, grouting, and geotechnology applications. Published in Discover Civil Engineering, the research delves into how plastic waste can be repurposed to enhance the engineering properties and resilience of geomaterials, offering a promising avenue for sustainable infrastructure development.
The study systematically reviews the use of plastic-based materials in geotechnical engineering, highlighting their versatility and convenience in stabilizing geomaterials through geopolymers and geotextiles. However, the non-biodegradable nature of these materials poses significant environmental challenges. Ngoma’s research explores how plastic waste can be integrated into civil infrastructure, not just as a means of disposal, but as a valuable resource.
“Our findings indicate that the effectiveness of plastic-based materials depends on their type, shape, and quantity,” Ngoma explains. “This influences their use in geo-engineering as stabilization, replacement, and reinforcement agents.” The study reveals that incorporating just 0.5% plastic waste into pavement construction could eliminate 240,000 tons of waste annually, a substantial reduction given that this accounts for about 2.4% of the total plastic waste produced in the United States.
The implications for the energy sector are particularly noteworthy. As infrastructure ages and the demand for sustainable solutions grows, the integration of plastic waste into geomaterials could revolutionize how we build and maintain energy-related infrastructure. From stabilizing soil for pipeline construction to enhancing the durability of offshore wind turbine foundations, the applications are vast and varied.
However, the study also acknowledges the challenges. Plastic-based materials cannot fully replace traditional construction practices due to their physico-hydro-chemo-mechanical properties. Yet, their potential to enhance sustainability and resilience is undeniable. Ngoma proposes a novel approach for plastic-based material waste disposal, suggesting underground geological sequences as an alternative geotechnique for long-term plastic waste disposal management. This could offer a potential solution for grouting underground infrastructure, further expanding the possibilities for plastic waste utilization.
The research not only provides insights into current applications but also offers a glimpse into the future potential of plastic-based materials in civil infrastructure. As the world continues to grapple with plastic waste, Ngoma’s work underscores the importance of innovative solutions that can turn a environmental burden into a valuable resource. The study, published in Discover Civil Engineering, serves as a call to action for the industry to embrace these sustainable practices, paving the way for a more resilient and eco-friendly future.
