Assessment of the mechanical and physical characteristics of PET bricks with different aggregates

Construction and demolition waste, along with discarded PET plastic bottles, have evolved into a widespread global resource. However, their current disposal in landfills poses a significant environmental pollution challenge. This research is centered on evaluating the performance of cement mortar composed by larger PET particles in conjunction with sand, construction and demolition waste, and lightweight expanded polystyrene aggregates. The primary objective of this study is to formulate a blend suitable for non-structural elements that can be easily manufactured for social housing construction. This modified blend extends upon the original certified mixture employed at CEVE for brick production, which encompasses cement and 3 mm-long PET particles. The experimental analysis revealed that blend containing 8 mm-long PET particles, in combination with fine aggregates of construction and demolition waste, attained a required mechanical strength of 2 MPa, while preserving the bulk density and hydric properties of the initial PET bricks developed at CEVE in Argentina. [Display omitted] •The adaptation of particle size of PET is suitable for non-structural elements.•Maximum packing density was achieved with 8 mm-PET and fine CDW.•It is possible to produce non-structural bricks with recycled PET and CDW.•A low-cost and low-density brick for non-structural purposes has been developed.