In the quest for sustainable construction materials, a groundbreaking study led by Jia Huina from the School of Civil Engineering at Shangqiu Institute of Technology in China has unveiled promising insights into the use of waste plastics and industrial byproducts in mortar formulations. The research, published in the journal “Reviews on Advanced Materials Science” (translated as “Advanced Materials Science Review”), explores the potential of glass powder, silica fume, and marble powder as eco-friendly additives to enhance the mechanical properties of mortar while reducing environmental impact.
The study utilized advanced modeling techniques, specifically gene expression programming (GEP) and multi-expression programming (MEP), to develop predictive models for flexural strength. These models were evaluated using a comprehensive set of statistical measures, including R² values, sensitivity analysis, and partial dependence plots (PDPs). The findings revealed that MEP was the more accurate model compared to GEP, providing valuable insights into the optimal mix design for sustainable mortar.
“Our research demonstrates that the incorporation of industrial waste powders and waste plastics can significantly improve the flexural strength of mortar,” said Jia Huina, the lead author of the study. “This not only contributes to greener construction practices but also addresses the pressing issue of waste management in the construction industry.”
The sensitivity analysis highlighted the crucial role of plastic and sand proportions in predicting flexural strength, emphasizing the need for precise mix design. Additionally, the study found that cement, silica fume, and marble powder positively impact flexural strength, while sand and plastic exhibit optimal levels for enhanced performance. The particle interaction sensitivity of glass powder was also underscored, indicating the importance of optimizing mix design to achieve improved mechanical behavior.
The commercial implications of this research are substantial, particularly for the energy sector. The development of sustainable mortar formulations can lead to significant reductions in carbon emissions and energy consumption associated with traditional cement production. This aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly construction materials and supports the transition towards a circular economy.
“By leveraging equation-based modeling and sustainable industrial byproducts, we can optimize mortar formulations to meet the evolving needs of the construction industry,” added Jia Huina. “This research paves the way for future developments in sustainable construction materials, contributing to a more environmentally conscious and resource-efficient future.”
As the construction industry continues to seek innovative solutions to reduce its environmental footprint, this study offers a compelling example of how waste materials can be transformed into valuable resources. The findings not only advance our understanding of sustainable mortar formulations but also highlight the potential for similar advancements in other areas of construction and materials science.