Thermoplastic Fine Aggregate Characteristics And Performance In Cementitious Composites: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Plastic used in everyday life, given its adaptability and long-lasting nature, poses environmental challenges due to the growing worldwide production. However, the limited recycling rates exacerbate these challenges, including waste plastic accumulation, landfill and air pollution, and adverse impacts on ecosystems. Several studies have explored incorporating plastic waste into cementitious composites to address these challenges. This paper reviews the use of recycled plastic waste as fine aggregates in cementitious composites, focusing on thermoplastic aggregates. Thermoplastics are a group of plastics known for their ability to be reshaped, reheated, and melted multiple times, exhibiting reversible properties and representing the largest proportion of global plastic production. The review examines the manufacturing processes and characteristics of widely used thermoplastic aggregates, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), including high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Particular emphasis is placed on the influence of aggregate characteristics, including particle size distribution, surface texture, particle shape, and surface treatment, on the fresh, mechanical, thermophysical, and durability properties of cementitious composites. The reviewed studies indicate that untreated thermoplastic aggregates can reduce compressive strength by up to 80%, whereas optimized particle grading and surface treatment can limit the reduction to 5%–20% in some cases. Treated HDPE aggregates generally exhibited improved compressive-strength retention, with reported increases of up to 45% under specific treatment conditions. The review also identifies key governing mechanisms, practical implications, and research gaps to support the optimized use of thermoplastic fine aggregates in cementitious composites and promote sustainable construction practices through the diversion of plastic waste from landfills and incineration.

Department(s)

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Cementitious composites; Material characteristics; Mechanical performance; Plastic waste; Thermoplastics fine aggregate

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

2352-7102

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2026 Elsevier, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jul 2026

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