Development of Lightweight Energy-Efficient Construction Blocks Incorporating Recycled Plastic and Alternative Materials

Abstract

This study investigates the formulation, characterization, and performance of energy-efficient construction blocks utilizing recycled plastics combined with alternative raw materials. The objective is to reduce cement consumption, thereby lowering CO₂ emissions, while maintaining structural strength and thermal insulation in compliance with European standards. River sand, crushed brick, basalt aggregate, volcanic ash, and shredded secondary plastics were used. Thermal conductivity, compressive strength, and density tests confirm that the blocks achieve a density of 500–650 kg/m³, compressive strength of 2.2–3 MPa, and thermal conductivity below 0.4 W/m·K.