Development of Light-Weight, Eco-Friendly E-Waste Plastic and Fibre Glass Reinforced Gypsum Composites for Sustainable Building Applications

Abstract

Due to the growing problems with electronic waste (e-waste) disposal and the essential need for sustainable construction materials in infrastructure-rigid contexts, (e-waste) management in many developing countries is still largely informal, and materials are not adequately used, while at the same time the construction industry is heavily relying on resources intensive materials. This dis-connection is seen as an opportunity to include waste flows into material supply chains.

This research involves the creation and testing of gypsum based composites containing shredded e-waste thermoplastics and fiberglass for non-structural building construction applications. Five compositions were designed and tested for compressive strength, density, flexural strength, and water absorption by standard procedures. The results show that the incorporation of e-waste-plastics decreases the density and moisture absorption of the composite while the fiberglass reinforcement increases the mechanical performance of the composite. The optimal composition, with 15% plastic and 10% fiberglass, achieved a 33% increase in compressive strength and 64% increase in flexural strength compared to the control sample.

In addition to material performance, the research is translated to a decentralized e-waste valorisation model, demonstrating the possibility of re-developing waste streams from the region into deconstructive material that can be used as a construction material. The results show the possibility of linking informal recycling practices to low-cost production of materials, thereby encouraging transitions towards resource efficiency and circular economy in global south countries.

Both empirical and conceptual insights into the role of material innovation as a bridge between waste management and construction systems are provided, with an upgradable pathway for sustainable use of materials for resource utilization.