Mortar with pet: Preliminary results

The objective of this work is to evaluate the performance and feasibility of the use of coating mortars with the incorporation of ground polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste. It was studied the performance of 1: 4 mortars in weight with partial replacement of the aggregate by PET residuals in different percentages (0%, 5% and 10%). Obtained results showed a decrease of the mechanical resistance of mortars in the inverse proportion of the use of PET residues of the mixture, an increase in resistance to water absorption by capillary action and a decrease in thermal conductivity. These results support the potential use of PET waste in coating mortars, thereby contributing to reduce the environmental impact caused by plastic waste. However, in order to be considered energy efficient, this new material needs further improvements.