EVALUACIÓN DE PROPIEDADES MECÁNICAS Y TÉRMICAS EN BALDOSAS DE HORMIGÓN CON AGREGADOS DE RESIDUOS PLÁSTICOS (EPS Y PEBD)

Abstract

The management of plastic waste is a global environmental challenge. This research explores a sustainable solution by developing concrete tiles incorporating recycled plastic aggregates. An experimental methodology was designed, evaluating three mixes: a control mix (B₁) without waste, and two mixes with partial replacement of traditional aggregates by Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) and Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) waste (B₂ and B₃). The properties in both fresh (slump) and hardened state (flexural and compressive strength, absorption, density, thermal conductivity, and impact resistance) were analyzed following international standards. The results indicate that the mixes with plastic waste (B₂ and B₃) met regulatory requirements, showing a significant reduction in density (up to 14%) and thermal conductivity (up to 47%) compared to the control. Mix B₂ exhibited the best overall performance, with a flexural strength of 7.64 daN/cm² and 7.4% absorption. The study concludes that it is feasible to produce tiles with improved thermal insulation and adequate mechanical properties using EPS and LDPE waste, offering a viable alternative for waste valorization in the construction industry.