In a groundbreaking study published in Scientific Reports, researchers have demonstrated a novel approach to enhancing the sustainability of the construction industry by repurposing industrial waste materials. Led by Sumant Nivarutti Shinde from the Department of Civil Engineering at Dr. Vishwanath Karad MIT World Peace University, the study explores the integration of ceramic waste as a fine aggregate replacement and plastic waste as fiber reinforcement in mortar. This innovative method not only addresses environmental concerns but also promises significant improvements in the mechanical properties of construction materials.
The construction sector is a major contributor to carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, largely due to the extensive extraction of natural resources. By recycling ceramic and plastic waste, the research team aims to mitigate these environmental impacts while enhancing the performance of construction materials. “The inclusion of plastic fibers in the mortar matrix significantly enhances crack resistance and reduces brittleness,” Shinde explains. “This results in better structural performance and durability, making it a promising solution for sustainable construction.”
The study evaluated key parameters such as dry density, ultrasonic pulse velocity, rebound hammer strength, and compressive strength. The results were striking: the modified mortar exhibited a 30% increase in compressive strength, reaching 38.62 MPa compared to 33.05 MPa in conventional mortar, with an additional 0.6% plastic fiber incorporation. This substantial improvement highlights the potential of waste materials to revolutionize the construction industry.
To optimize and predict the performance of the modified mortar, the research team employed advanced machine learning models, including Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). These models showed high accuracy in predicting the mechanical properties of the mortar, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable construction practices.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. By reducing the reliance on natural resources and utilizing waste materials, the construction industry can significantly lower its carbon footprint. This approach not only benefits the environment but also offers economic advantages by reducing the cost of raw materials and waste disposal. “This study underscores the feasibility of utilizing waste materials in construction, promoting a more sustainable and eco-friendly infrastructure,” Shinde notes.
As the energy sector increasingly focuses on sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the findings of this study offer a compelling pathway forward. By integrating waste materials into construction processes, the industry can achieve both environmental and economic goals. The use of ceramic waste as a fine aggregate replacement and plastic waste as fiber reinforcement represents a significant step towards a more sustainable future.
The research, published in Scientific Reports, titled “Optimization of waste plastic fiber concrete with recycled coarse aggregate using RSM and ANN,” provides a robust framework for future developments in the field. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the integration of waste materials and advanced machine learning models will play a crucial role in shaping sustainable infrastructure. This study serves as a beacon of innovation, inspiring further research and practical applications in the quest for a greener, more efficient construction sector.