Development and Evaluation of the Pipe Moulded from Plastic Bags

Lorraine  A. Carillo,

Development and Evaluation of the Pipe Moulded from Plastic Bags

Abstract:

Plastics are made up of polymers, which are long chains of atoms bonded to one another. These chains are made up of many repeating molecular units, or "monomers." While some plastics such as PET bottles are recycled, the proliferation of plastic bags have also contributed to flooding when they clog drainage and canals and environmental pollution when burned with other wastes. The only option is to reduce, reuse, and recycle plastic bags.

The overall objective of this study is to assess and evaluate the performance of an experimental pipe made from recycled LDPE/HDPE plastics. In the assessment of its performance, the kind of load that the experimental pipe is subjected to should be determined. Temperature and exposure to the elements affect the application and lifespan of pipes.

The experimental pipe formed was smooth to the touch and lightweight. It was easy to cut using ordinary saw. The densities of experimental pipes A, B, C, and D were smaller compared to the original density of the polyethylene and that of a Polyvinylchloride (PVC) pipe. This makes any of the experimental pipes lighter except for pipe D which was heavier than HDPE or LDPE.

The average density for the pipes is 0.825, with an average maximum load of 9.97 KN and compressive strength of 4.10 MPa , while all four can withstand temperature of 50 ° C. The pipes were also acid resistant.