Abstract:

A simple and effective method to recycle waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles to produce plastic mortar  was discussed. The effects of PET-to-sand ratio, curing time, and addition of asphalt on physical and mechanical properties of plastic mortar were investigated. According to the results, plastic mortar had the characteristics of low water absorption and fast strength growth. As the sand content increased, the compressive and flexural strength of plastic mortar increased.  At the room temperature, plastic mortar could attain over 90％ of its ultimate compressive strength within 3 hours. Adding a small amount of asphalt could improve the plastic mortar’s flexural strength.

Key words: waste polyethylene terephthalate bottles, plastic mortar, compressive strength, flexural strength