POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE (PET), BANANA FIBER, EGGSHELL: A SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVE TO OUTDOOR TILE PRODUCTION

Abstract

Solid waste pollution has significantly increased in society, encompassing concerns ranging from environmental impacts during production to the destructive consequences when waste materials are released into the environment. Commercially available tiles contain chemicals such as silicon dioxide, alumina, iron oxide, and feldspathoid, which may be harmful. This concern has prompted the exploration of waste-based alternatives such as PET bottles, banana fibers, and eggshells. This research aimed to explore the effects of these alternative materials on the mechanical force and strength properties of tiles, addressing the gap in studies on eco-friendly tile production. This study employed a true experimental research design to assess the effectiveness of manufactured tiles incorporating polyethylene terephthalate, banana fiber, and eggshell in terms of flexural strength, drop test performance, and water absorption. The mechanical properties of the tiles were evaluated to determine the effects of additives such as PET plastic, banana fibers, and eggshells. Descriptive statistics, such as percentages, were applied to analyze the data. The results showed that flexural strength significantly improved with the addition of eggshells and banana fibers. Impact resistance also increased significantly with the inclusion of PET, eggshells, and banana fibers. Additionally, the alternative tiles made from polyethylene terephthalate exhibited a lower rate of water absorption than commercial tiles due to the presence of plastic and eggshells. The alternative outdoor tiles made from PET, banana fiber, and eggshell were found to be comparable to commercially available outdoor tiles in terms of quality and price. The study suggests that incorporating more material ratios in future production may result in stronger tiles.