Thermo-Physical Properties of Concrete Containing PET and Artificial Aggregates Prepared from Industrial By-Products

In this work lightweight concrete was prepared from industrial by-products like municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MSWI-FA), ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS), marble sludge (MS) and recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The MSWI-FA were pre-washed to reduce the content of hazardous components and then along with GGBFS and cement were used to prepare single-bonded lightweight artificial aggregates via cold bonding. After 28 days curing double-bonded aggregates were prepared by applying another layer of MS, GGBFS and cement. The lightweight concrete prepared from produced lightweight artificial aggregates (LAAs) and small amount of PET in sand form. The small content of PET was used to ensure good mechanical properties and improved thermal performance of concrete. The results confirm that LAAs based concrete samples have shown better thermal performance (up to 25%) but the compressive strength was compromised (up to 30%). Furthermore, the addition of 10% PET further enhances the thermal insulation properties of concrete. Such concrete will bring circularity and sustainability by utilizing various industrial wastes, particularly fly ashes which help to lower use of cement and lead towards lesser greenhouse gas emissions.