Reuse of PET particles in the production of construction mortars

Abstract

Recycled PET particles were used as a partial replacement for fine aggregate in Portland cement mortars. The water/cement ratio by weight of the mortars was 0.50, and the recycled PET was crushed until obtaining particles with sizes smaller than 4.75 mm. The proportions of substitution of natural sand for PET were 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% based on volume. Cubic specimens of 5 cm per side and quadrangular prisms of 4 cm x 4 cm x 16 cm were made in triplicate. The rheological properties of the mortars in the fresh state, as well as the mechanical and durability properties in the hardened state, were evaluated. The results indicate that the PET increases the viscosity and the yield strength of the mortars, with respect to the control, showing similar values ​​of both properties in the mortars containing from 5 to 15% of PET. Regarding the properties in the hardened state, as the amount of PET increased, a decrease was observed in the ultrasonic pulse velocity, in the compressive strength, in the modulus of elasticity and in the flexural strength. The capillary absorption of water increased in the mortars containing PET.