Recycling of Waste Polymeric Materials as a Partial Replacement for Aggregate in Concrete

The potential of recycled waste polymeric materials as a substitute for aggregates in concrete has been investigated in the study. Three types of waste polymer, namely expanded polystyrene (EPS) based packaging waste, high density polyethylene (HDPE) and vehicle tire were used in the experiment. Assessment was carried out on the basis of the mechanical, physical and morphological properties of the modified concrete. The result shows that the inclusion of waste polymer materials decreases compressive strength, density, porosity and water sorption properties. Due to exceptionally less density, recycled polymer modified concrete can be used in non load bearing structures, floating structures and where light weight materials recommended. This indicates that recycled waste polymer has a potential to be used as aggregate for concrete.