International Research Journal of Education and Technology

The growing environment-and-economy-related problems due to electronic waste (e-waste) are creating an increased interest in evolutionary recycling solutions. One possibility is the inclusion of e-waste byproducts into construction materials: concrete. This work examines the advantages and disadvantages of applying recycled e-waste materials in concrete to enhance its quality, performance, and sustainability.

Much of the e-waste comprises valuable materials such as metals, plastics, and glass that can be repackaged as substitutes for conventional mixtures in concrete manufacture. Sheared circuit boards, plastics, and metals are the various e-waste materials studied in regards to their impact on some concrete properties, namely compressive strength, durability, and resistance to chemical degradation. Preliminary results suggest that appropriate processing and treatment of certain e-waste materials can contribute positively to concrete mechanical properties and minimize its environmental burden.

Apart from that, the incorporation of e-waste into concrete really does offer double duty in both solving the growing e-waste disposal crisis and promoting sustainable building materials. However, there are challenges including material compatibility, potential toxicity, and imposing technologies that need to be carefully considered.

Key Words:  concrete, compressive Strength, Ecological pollutant, Tensile Strength