Abstract
The rapid growth of the construction sector has driven researchers to develop innovative, environmentally friendly strategies. One such strategy is the incorporation of waste plastics into concrete production, which both enhances certain concrete properties and provides a viable approach for plastic waste valorization. Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer is a thermoplastic that has attracted growing research interest due to its flexibility, durability, and favorable thermal properties. In recent years, several studies have investigated the use of EVA waste aggregates in structural lightweight concrete. This study aims to synthesize the existing research on the use of EVA waste aggregates in concrete, providing a general overview of development in EVA waste aggregates concrete and examining its thermo-mechanical behavior in the hardened state. Results indicate that the partial replacement of natural aggregates with EVA waste improves thermal insulation performance, as demonstrated by a reduction in thermal conductivity. However, this improvement is accompanied by a reduction in mechanical performance, including flexural and compressive strengths. Overall, these results confirm that EVA waste aggregates can be used to produce lightweight concrete suitable for semi-structural application.
Highlights
Recycled EVA footwear waste is evaluated as lightweight concrete aggregates.
EVA aggregates significantly improve the thermal insulation of concrete.
The review highlights the trade-off between thermal and mechanical properties.
Using plastic waste in concrete promotes circular economy and sustainability.