Material híbrido de plásticos reciclados (PET y PP) y áridos para la fabricación de adoquines sostenibles

Sustainable construction requires innovative materials that minimize environmental impact and optimize resource use. Recycling widely discarded plastics such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP) offers a viable strategy to reduce waste accumulation and reliance on virgin resources. This study develops and characterizes a hybrid material made from recycled PET and PP combined with mineral aggregates for manufacturing eco-paving blocks intended for rural construction. Several mix proportions were tested, achieving compressive strengths of 20–25 MPa and flexural strengths near 10 MPa, values comparable to conventional concrete pavers but with significantly lower weight. Water absorption remained ≤1%, complying with Ecuadorian Standard INEN 3040 and European Standard UNE-EN 1338. The findings demonstrate that incorporating recycled plastics into paving blocks supports the circular economy, reduces plastic pollution, and provides lightweight, durable, and cost-efficient alternatives suitable for agricultural and rural infrastructure, contributing to more sustainable construction practices.