Recycle And Reuse of Plastic in The Form of Terrecota- Jali

Abstract: Plastic pollution poses one of the most significant environmental threats today, with millions of tons of waste impacting ecosystems and human health annually. This paper details an innovative approach to mitigate this issue by recycling and repurposing plastic waste, specifically High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), into terracotta-style jali. Jalis, traditional Indian architectural screens known for their intricate designs and functional ventilation properties, are typically made from terracotta, which is heavy, fragile, and relatively costly. This research explores the creation of a sustainable alternative by blending recycled HDPE with additives like terracotta powder, fly ash, and fine sand to mimic the aesthetic and functional qualities of traditional jalis. The study outlines the material selection, detailed production methodology including waste collection, cleaning, shredding, mixing, molding, and controlled heat treatment. It presents findings from physical and mechanical testing, specifically compressive strength and water absorption tests, comparing the performance of the recycled plastic jali with conventional terracotta. The results indicate that while the compressive strength is lower than traditional terracotta, the recycled plastic jali offers significantly improved water resistance and potential advantages in terms of weight, cost-effectiveness, and durability. This project highlights the potential of transforming plastic waste into valuable, aesthetically pleasing architectural elements, contributing to sustainable design, green building practices, and the principles of a circular economy.