EFFECT OF SOLVENT-INDUCED POLYMER SLURRY ON THE PHYSICO-CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF SILICATED LOW DENSITY POLYETHYLENE COMPOSITE DOPED WITH NATURALLY OCCURING IRON (III) IONS

The increase in the accumulation of plastic waste, particularly Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and low density polyethylene (LDPE), presents environmental challenges due to their non-biodegradable nature and effects on terrestrial and marine ecosystems. This study reports the development of more sustainable materials, produced from waste LDPE combined with sand and gravel dust for potential applications especially in the construction field. A slurry-based production method using kerosene as a solvent was used to produce a total of seventeen composite samples with different polymer-aggregate ratios and additives, including iron rust (Fe³⁺) and cement. Physical features tested included compressive strength, impact resistance, elongation at break, density, and moisture absorption tests in accordance with ASTM standards. Microstructural and elemental analysis were conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The results indicate that the addition of iron rust significantly enhanced cross-linking and crystallinity within the polymer matrix, leading to improved impact resistance. Composites with proportional sand-to-polymer ratios demonstrated higher elongation and mechanical stability, while the composites with excessive cement content showed a higher crystallinity and reduced ductility. SEM micrographs also revealed improved interfacial bonding in rust-modified systems. The study showed that LDPE–aggregate composites could offer a viable, eco-friendly alternative for durable construction applications, contributing to reduction in plastic waste