COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF POLYMER CONCRETE FORMULATED FROM LOW-DENSITY POLYETHYLENE POLYMERS
- Authors
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C. M. Ikumapayi
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Federal university of Technology Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.
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- Keywords:
- Building materials, compressive strength, electrical resistivity, epoxy resin, Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) and Polymers
- Abstract
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Research into the sustainable use of polymers as building materials in the construction sector has become necessary due to the growing costs associated with conventional building or construction materials and the issue of polymer waste management in Nigeria. Using recycled Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) and epoxy resin as polymer binders, the study investigates the creation and performance assessment of polymer concrete. A volumetric mix ratio of 1:1.5:2 for binder, fine aggregate, and coarse aggregate was used to create three concrete samples: LDPE-based, epoxy-based, and control sample. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to perform standard tests to evaluate water absorption, surface electrical resistivity, compressive strength, and chemical composition. The results demonstrated that epoxy-based concrete had good mechanical and durability qualities, as evidenced by its high electrical resistivity values and high compressive strength value of 32 MPa. The compressive strength result reported by the LDPE samples was like the control samples, but the LDPE samples had a higher water absorption rate compared to the control samples. LDPE recorded a less value for resistivity which suggested that it has a reduced ability to withstand intrusion by moisture or water. The result of FTIR investigation showed unique chemical compositions in all the mixes confirming the influence and positive impact of the polymers on structural performance of the resulting concrete samples. The study, using recycling materials (polymers) promotes sustainable building methods and creates alternative for affordable building infrastructures.
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- 2026-03-31
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