Improving the Structural Efficiency of Punched-Metal-Material-Based Composites

This study investigates the potential of reusing punched-steel waste, a significant component of solid inorganic waste, in composite materials for construction applications. Driven by the growing global demand for raw materials (which is projected to quadruple by 2050) and the need for sustainable waste management practices, this research explores the creation of a composite material (PPLK) incorporating punched-steel tape (LPM-4 grade) embedded in a polypropylene matrix. Experimental testing of PPLK specimens (310 × 90 × 6.30 mm) and finite element analysis (FEA) were employed to evaluate the mechanical properties and stress concentration coefficient. The results show that the PPLK composite exhibits a load-carrying capacity of 21.64 kN, exceeding the sum of its individual components by 11.37%, demonstrating a synergistic effect between the steel (average tensile strength 220.65 MPa) and polypropylene. FEA further revealed that increasing the matrix's modulus of elasticity to 42 MPa significantly reduces the stress concentration coefficient in the steel component, resulting in a 24% enhancement of the elastic force. The findings suggest a viable path toward sustainable waste management and improved material utilisation in the construction industry.