Study of the Mechanical and Physical Behavior of Gypsum Boards with Plastic Cable Waste Aggregates and Their Application to Construction Panels

Materials (Basel). 2021 Apr 27;14(9):2255. doi: 10.3390/ma14092255.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyze the physico-mechanical properties of gypsum boards including plastic waste aggregates from cable recycling. The plastic cable waste is incorporated into the gypsum matrix without going through any type of selection and/or treatment, as it is obtained after the cable recycling process. In the experimental process, gypsum boards of different dimensions were manufactured and tested for their Young's modulus, shock-impact resistance, flexural strength, thermal conductivity, and thermal comfort. The results obtained show a significant increase in the elasticity of the boards with plastic waste (limited cracking), compliance with the minimum value of flexural strength, and a slight improvement in the thermal conductivity coefficient (lower energy demand) and surface comfort (reduced condensation and greater adherence). Therefore, the analyzed material could provide a suitable alternative to currently marketed gypsum boards, contributing to sustainable construction not only in new constructions, but also in building renovations.

Keywords: gypsum board; mechanical properties of gypsum board; physical properties of gypsum board; plaster applications; plastic waste.