Influence of Plastic Waste and Wood Sawdust on Mechanical Properties and Permeability of Self-Compacting Concrete: A Comparative Study

Mirzaie Aliabadi, Mahbobeh; Shahidzadeh, Mohammad Sadegh; Makvandi, Ali; Alipoor, Morteza; Derakhshan Nezhad, Amir Hossein

doi:10.22059/ceij.2026.387030.2212

Influence of Plastic Waste and Wood Sawdust on Mechanical Properties and Permeability of Self-Compacting Concrete: A Comparative Study

Articles in Press

Authors

¹ Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Technical and Engineering Faculty, Behbahan Khatam Alanbia University of Technology, Iran

² Master's student in Civil-Structural Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, Technical and Engineering Faculty, Behbahan Khatam Alanbia University of Technology, Iran

³ Graduated with a Master's degree in Civil and Structural Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, Technical and Engineering Faculty, Behbahan Khatam Alanbia University of Technology, Iran

10.22059/ceij.2026.387030.2212

Abstract

This research investigates the effect of incorporating plastic waste and wood sawdust into self-compacting concrete (SCC) to improve its mechanical properties and reduce permeability, promoting sustainable construction. SCC is valued for its fluidity, durability, resistance to segregation, and ability to flow through reinforcement without vibration. The study compares the impact of plastic waste and sawdust, added at 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2% by cement weight, on SCC’s fresh and hardened properties. Fresh properties were assessed using slump flow, L-box, V-funnel, J-ring, and U-box tests to evaluate flowability, passing ability, and viscosity. Hardened properties were examined through compressive strength, tensile strength, and permeability tests to determine structural performance and durability. Results showed that plastic waste significantly increased tensile strength compared to sawdust, due to its reinforcing effect, while sawdust reduced permeability more effectively, likely by filling micro-pores. After 28 days of curing, compressive strength increased by 55.87% with plastic waste and 36.56% with sawdust compared to the control sample. These enhancements demonstrate the potential of waste materials to improve SCC performance while addressing environmental concerns by recycling solid waste, reducing landfill use, and mitigating pollution. This approach supports sustainable construction by combining improved concrete properties with environmental benefits.

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