Utilization of Artificial Coarse Aggregate from Polyethylene Terephthalate Plastic Waste in Concrete

Plastic waste production is increasing in tandem with increased plastic consumption. Plastic waste used in construction is one of the most environmentally friendly options available for reducing environmental impact. This research is an experiment on the petrography, the porosity, and the mechanical characteristics of concrete using PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) plastic aggregates to replace natural aggregates. Artificial aggregate by heating PET plastic waste until it reaches a melting point of about 250 °C to- 260 °C, produces concrete with four percentage levels of artificial aggregate substitution, namely 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. The mechanical testing of the sample is done after 28 days. The compressive strength of plastic concrete used as a substitute for artificial aggregate in concrete mixtures has been reduced as a result of this research. The replacement of 25% of PET plastic-made aggregates has significantly increased tensile and flexural strength, and PET petrography has revealed cement-filled pores and cracks. The PET artificial aggregate and the cement matrix have adhered perfectly and have formed an impenetrable bond. The exponential power equation may be used to estimate the connection between porosity and compressive strength in concrete using PET plastic artificial aggregates.