SHOCKING: 4 | Mind Blowing Facts

Recycled Textile Cement Composite: Silica fume cuts fibre ageing; boosts flexural toughness

In a recent study, engineers explored a cement composite fortified with flax fibers and recycled textiles to assess its performance. The research demonstrated that incorporating 30% silica fume significantly boosted durability across different aging scenarios. Findings showed that silica fume effectively reduced fiber degradation, preserving flexural strength and toughness. Furthermore,…

The Times of India · Oct 3

Mining waste was used to build a road with improved performance in China

Gold mining produces more than the metal that eventually leaves the mine. Open-pit operations also generate large quantities of solid waste, including rock, slag and other residues that must be managed and stored. A new study has tested whether some of that material can instead be turned into part of…

The Times of India · Oct 3

Australia turned waste plastic into railway sleepers in 2015; they can last 50 years

Australia began experimenting with railway sleepers made from recycled plastic in 2015, turning material that might otherwise have gone to landfill into a component designed to sit beneath railway tracks. Developed by Integrated Recycling with researchers at Monash University's Institute of Railway Technology, the Duratrack sleeper is made from about…

The Times of India · Oct 2

Hydrothermal Plastic Recycling Impact: Teesside plant tests HydroPRS; electricity drives big carbon cost

In October 2023, Mura Technology launched its groundbreaking HydroPRS plant in Teesside, designed to tackle the challenge of recycling difficult plastics. Utilizing supercritical water, this process transforms plastic waste into valuable hydrocarbon products, showcasing a significant reduction in carbon emissions compared to traditional incineration methods. By 2024, the plant aims…

The Times of India · Oct 1

Los Angeles Plastic Road Trial: PET binder recycles asphalt in place; lifespan gains unproven

In a groundbreaking initiative, Los Angeles has launched a pilot program to recycle used asphalt through a synthetic binder derived from reclaimed plastic bottles. This revolutionary method negates the need to transport old asphalt, allowing for an efficient on-site milling, mixing, and paving process. Initial findings indicate that this innovative…

The Times of India · Oct 1

Sand-Polyethylene Material Strength: Compacting 7–10% PE matches steel concrete; offers cement alternative

In 2020, a groundbreaking study revealed a novel structural material generated by blending sand with polyethylene. This innovative composition exhibited impressive flexural strength when compressed, outperforming standard steel-reinforced concrete. The researchers focused on utilizing recycled plastics as binders, presenting a compelling alternative to traditional Portland cement. Various sand-polyethylene mixtures were…

The Times of India · Oct 1

Recycled Glass Rail Tests: Lab study finds similar traction to sand; real tracks come next

British railway workers are dealing with slippery tracks due to fallen leaves and an ongoing sand shortage. Researchers are exploring crushed recycled glass as an alternative to traditional sanding materials. Initial tests show that recycled glass offers similar traction and rail wear as sand. However, further real-world evaluations are needed…

The Times of India · Oct 1

US students win $25,000 after creating a biodegradable coffee pod

Two American high-school students turned a chemistry assignment about household rubbish into Naturista, a coffee capsule made from pullulan. Aditya Herekar and Karan Verma tested around 200 prototypes before developing their design. Their work led to university collaboration, a patent application, a published research paper and a $25,000 competition prize.

The Times of India · Sep 30

Haier, Godrej, Blue Star failed to detect fake e-waste recycling claims, India notice shows

Indian tax authorities have identified major appliance companies incorrectly claiming tax credits for non-existent e-waste processing services. The companies relied on documents from a recycler accused of fabrication and lacked verification of actual work done. Haier, Godrej & Boyce, and Blue Star face penalties for these false claims, totaling about…

The Economic Times · Sep 30

Plastic Road Doubles As Water Tank: Schiphol tests recycled modules; pilot could expand network

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has pioneered a new roadway that utilizes recycled plastic to combat flooding challenges. This cutting-edge road is engineered to capture rainwater, significantly reducing surface runoff that can lead to floods. The inaugural section can hold around 43,200 liters of water, showcasing a remarkable approach to managing plastic…

The Times of India · Sep 30