Performance Based Analysis of Concrete and Plastic Paver Blocks Under Dynamic Conditions

Abstract

This study provides dynamic comparison between concrete paver blocks and plastic paver blocks in terms of mechanical performance, durability, environmental impact, and economic feasibility. Since traditional concrete pavers are commonly utilised for infrastructure, they carry issues like heavy weight, fragility, and high environmental cost from cement usage. An innovative alternative to concrete paver blocks is the use of paver blocks made from recycled polymers or plastic and have shown potential in the areas of sustainability, flexibility, and durability.
Key parameters like compressive strength, water absorption, wear resistance, and resistance to repeated cycles of wetting and drying were measured by laboratory tests. Whereas despite high initial compressive strength of concrete blocks, notable cyclic exposure degradation was observed. Though they have less initial strength than their concrete counterparts, the plastic paver blocks were far superior as of moisture resistance, recovery from deformation, and long-term performance in dynamic environmental conditions.
However, prices of plastic paver production depend upon demand and availability of raw plastics. But there are long term benefits in lower maintenance, a longer operational life. Plastic pavers are more environmentally friendly than traditional counterparts, whereas they have a lower carbon footprint, even consume non-biodegradable waste and require less water and energy in the whole process of production fulfilling the objective of Circular economy.
Study finds that the plastic paver blocks are cost effective, sustainable and durable alternative, which are especially effective in areas that suffer from lot of plastic wastage. It will need to be standardized and field-tested further to be used more widely. This study highlights role of novel use of material for sustainable environmental conservation.