EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON THE BEHAVIOUR OF GYPSUM PLASTER BOARD INCORPORATED WITH WASTE PLASTIC

Abstract : Plastering is a construction technique using a mixture of cement, fine aggregate (River sand or M- sand) to create a smooth, protective finish on walls and ceilings. It conceals imperfections, enhances aesthetics, and improves insulation. But Cement production is a major source of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. River sand mining can alter and destroy natural habitats in and around riverbeds. Quarrying for raw materials to produce M-sand can disrupt local ecosystems and habitats, potentially affecting wildlife and plant species in the area. Instead of traditional cement plastering, Also The generation of waste plastic is increasing day by day. It has numerous negative effects on the environment. 9.46 million tons of plastic garbage are produced in India each year. The fact that about 40% of this waste is not collected has an impact on the environment. Hence the Eco plaster gypsum board making with waste plastic, used for reducing environmental impact and contributing to sustainable construction practices. These Board typically incorporate eco-friendly materials such as waste plastic pet bottles, waste cement bag and production practices to minimize their carbon footprint and contribute to a greener construction industry. The study's objective is to look at the gypsum plaster board's mechanical characteristics, including its water resistance, flexural strength, and compressive strength. In this study, small fragments of used pet bottle plastic are shred and heated to depolymerize them. Ethylene glycol and Nano-Magnesium Oxide are added in the proper amounts for the chemical reaction. The board is then made by mixing melted waste plastic with gypsum. By adding of molten waste plastic it improves the water proofing capacity of gypsum board by 30%, The study aims to address the fragility of plaster in the design of decorative pieces with large dimensions that may cause issues for users. Specifically, the plaster will be reinforced with a ratio of 1 and 2% for plastic fiber and 5 and 10% for liquefied plastic, based on the volume of reference specimens that were studied. Test samples were created for the experiment and put through the Flexure and Total Water Absorption tests. The purpose of this study is to lessen the quantity of waste plastics that are disposed of in landfills and to examine the water-resistant qualities of gypsum plaster board combined with used plastic bottles. The PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) bottles, once collected, undergo a chemical process where they are transformed into a liquid form. This process utilizes Ethylene glycol and Nano-Magnesium Oxide as catalysts, with a specific ratio of 4:1 EG to PET molar ratio. The aim is to evaluate their suitability as a viable alternative to address moisture issues in buildings. Consequently, the material being examined presents a promising replacement for gypsum currently available in the market, particularly in areas of buildings susceptible to water exposure. Moreover, it contributes to reducing environmental impact.

Keyword Gypsum Board, Waste Plastic, Polymerization, flexure test, water absorption test.