Structural Behavior of Polymer Concrete Beams Using Recycled Plastic

Abstract

The structural behavior of steel‐reinforced polymer concrete (PC) beams using unsaturated polyester resin binders based on recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic waste is evaluated. Steel fibers are also used in some of the beams. The investigation includes load‐deflection and moment‐curvature responses, modes of failure, cracking patterns, variation of neutral axis depth with loads, strength properties, ductility index, the effect of tensile reinforcement ratio on the flexural strength of PC beams, and the effects of shear span‐to‐depth ratio, tensile reinforcement, and compressive strength on the shear strength of PC beams. The ultimate flexural strength of reinforced PC using resins based on recycled PET is compared to other reinforced concrete systems. The effects of steel fibers on the load‐deflection response and shear strength of reinforced PC beams are also evaluated. Resins using recycled PET offer the possibility of producing very good quality PC at a lower cost for structural applications. Also, the recycling of PET in PC helps in saving energy and in partially solving a solid waste problem posed by plastics.