Abstract
The recycling of advanced polymers and composites is a major problem facing the composites industry due not only to problems related to the actual process itself but also to liability issues associated with reuse. This article presents the initial results of an ongoing investigation aimed at the reuse of waste pellets as aggregate in concrete to in crease the compression strength and ductility of the resulting concrete. A variety of glass- filled materials, including nylon, polycarbonate, and polypropylene—as well as unrein forced polymers such as PET and PEEK—were used. Materials were substituted for traditional stone aggregate at a range of levels including complete replacement. Results demonstrate the viability of such use, and the article discusses implications in terms of future applications, as well as advances needed, in order to make this approach a reality.