In the heart of Kenya, a groundbreaking solution to two pressing challenges—waste management and affordable housing—is emerging from the labs of the Department of Civil Engineering. Led by Yusuf Olawale Babatunde, a team of researchers has developed a novel construction material that repurposes waste plastic and glass, offering a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional cement-based blocks.
The study, published in the journal *Advances in Civil Engineering* (which translates to *Advances in Civil Engineering* in English), addresses a critical issue in Kenya and beyond: the mounting problem of plastic and glass waste. “Most of this waste ends up in landfills due to inadequate recycling strategies,” Babatunde explains. “Meanwhile, the construction industry faces challenges with the high cost and inconsistent quality of conventional cement-based masonry blocks, which also contribute to elevated carbon emissions.”
The researchers turned to waste linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) plastic as a binder and waste glass as reinforcement, creating cementless composite blocks. These blocks were rigorously tested for mechanical, durability, and thermal properties, and the results are promising. At an optimal plastic-to-glass ratio of 1:2, the composite achieved compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths that exceed local minimum standards for nonload-bearing masonry.
“These findings suggest that cementless blocks produced from local plastic and glass waste offer a viable, eco-friendly, and potentially more affordable alternative to conventional masonry units in Kenya,” Babatunde states. The blocks also demonstrated significantly lower water absorption rates compared to cement-based references, indicating superior durability.
The implications for the construction industry are substantial. Not only could this innovation reduce the environmental impact of construction materials, but it could also provide a cost-effective solution for affordable housing. “This research could shape future developments in the field by promoting the use of recycled materials in construction, thereby reducing waste and lowering costs,” Babatunde adds.
As the world grapples with the challenges of urbanization and sustainability, this Kenyan innovation offers a beacon of hope. By repurposing waste materials, the research team is not only addressing environmental concerns but also paving the way for a more sustainable and affordable future in construction.