Pemanfaatan Limbah Plastik PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate ) dalam Pembuatan Bata Ringan CLC (Cellular Lightweight Concrete): Studi Eksperimental

Abstract

This research aims to explore the utilization of PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) plastic waste as a substitute for fine aggregates in the production of CLC (Cellular Lightweight Concrete) blocks. With the increasing amount of non degradable plastic waste, this study offers an innovative solution to reduce environmental impact while improving the mechanical and physical properties of lightweight blocks. The methodology used involves varying the substitution of PET plastic waste at 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% of the aggregate weight, with each variation producing three test specimens tested for compressive strength, dry weight, water absorption, porosity, and fire resistance after a curing process of 28 days.The results showed that the compressive strength of the lightweight blocks decreased as the proportion of PET increased, from 1.16 MPa at 0% PET to 0.59 MPa at 15% PET. The dry oven weight is 830.83 kg/m² at 0% PET, but it continuously decreases up to 698.33 at 15% PET. Water absorption also increased, reaching 25.56% at 15% PET, while porosity showed a positive correlation with PET variation, reaching 25,56% at 15% PET. Microstructure testing (SEM) revealed that calcium (Ca) and oxygen (O) were the dominant elements in the chemical composition of PET lightweight blocks. The best impact resistance was shown by blocks with 0% and 5% PET, while resistance decreased at 15% PET. In fire resistance testing, the highest temperature at 0% PET reached 324°C, while at 5% PET it reached 436°C. Economic analysis showed that the price per lightweight block increased with the addition of PET, from Rp10,000 at 0% PET to Rp30,169 at 15% PET. In conclusion, the use of PET plastic waste in the production of CLC lightweight blocks can enhance water absorption and porosity, but reduces compressive strength and material resistance, providing an environmentally friendly alternative for plastic waste utilization in the construction industry.