California-based Arqlite SPC processes unrecyclable plastic waste into artificial gravel, avoiding the use of natural quarry aggregates and boulders in the production of light concrete and in drainage beds for construction and landscaping.
It has developed technology that allows most of the plastic waste to be recycled instead of disposal at a landfill or polluting the environment. Cemex said that the light aggregates it produces multiply thermal and acoustic insulation by ten times compared to mineral aggregates and offer better construction quality and higher energy conservation.
The aggregate is three times lighter than stone; benefits include lower transportation costs. The low thermal conductivity of plastic reduces its reaction to extreme temperature variations and, therefore, the possibility of fracturing or altering the concrete mix, said Cemex.
The process is claimed to be capable of processing the vast majority of plastic waste as raw material.
