Mechanical and durability properties of cement mortar containing waste pet aggregate and natural zeolite

Abstract

This study focuses on the usage of alternative materials consisting of physical, mechanical and durability properties of cement mortars containing natural zeolite and plastic bottle waste, as a substitute for the aggregate. Three different volume fractions of sand, 5 %, 10 % and 20 %, were replaced by the same weight of PET aggregate granules. Natural zeolite replaced the cement at 0 %, 10 % and 20 %. Despite its drawbacks, such as a decrease in the compressive strength and fire resistance, the use of waste PET aggregates presented advantages, such as a reduction in the density and water absorption and high frost resistance of the cement mortar. The result of this study indicated that a cement paste utilising 5 % of waste PET and 10 % natural zeolite showed a satisfactory compressive strength. In conclusion, the result of the study suggested that a cement paste with PET aggregates and natural zeolite could be used in civil engineering constructions for the purpose of saving the environment.