Rizal Technological University

College of Engineering and Architecture

Civil Engineering Department

Polymers/Plastics

GROUP 4
Name: Actual Report Written Report Grooming
Calonia,
Christian N.
De Guzman,
Nica Sheena L.
Lacambra,
Kurt Ruzzel H.
Rodriguez,
Sir Rufy A.
Seva,
John Lloyd V.

SUBJECT: CE05 – Construction Materials and Testing Lecture

TIME: 1:00P – 3:00P / M
SECTION: CEIT-02-401P
SUBMITTED TO: Asst. Prof. Zorahayda V. Concepcion

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Calonia,Christian N.

De Guzman, Nica Sheena L.

Lacambra, Kurt Ruzzel H.

Rodriguez, Sir Rufy A.

Seva, John Lloyd V.

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 Table of Contents

1. POLYMERS........................................................................................................................... 4
Definition .................................................................................................................................. 5
Properties of Polymers ............................................................................................................. 5
Polymer Structure .................................................................................................................... 5
Process of Polymer .................................................................................................................. 6
2. HOW POLYMER CONNECTED TO CIVIL ENGINEERING .................................................. 8
Types Of Polymers and How They Are Utilized In Construction ............................................... 8
Advantages And Disadvantages of Using Polymers ............................................................... 10
Application Of Polymers in Construction ................................................................................ 10
Importance of Polymers in Civil Engineering .......................................................................... 11
3. PLASTICS ........................................................................................................................... 12
Plastics made of what? ......................................................................................................... 13
Properties Of Plastics ............................................................................................................. 13
Different Types of Plastic ........................................................................................................ 13
Molecular Structures of Plastic .............................................................................................. 14
Examples of Plastic ................................................................................................................ 14
Process of Plastic................................................................................................................... 15
4. HOW PLASTICS CONNECTED TO CIVIL ENGINEERING ................................................ 16
The types of plastic used in construction ................................................................................ 16
Properties of plastics as a construction material ................................................................... 17
Uses of plastics in building construction ................................................................................. 18
Advantages and disadvantages of using plastic ..................................................................... 19
Importance of Plastics in Civil Engineering ........................................................................... 20
5. POLYMER VS. PLASTIC .................................................................................................... 20
Why is polymer better than plastics? ...................................................................................... 20
Are polymers stronger than plastic? ....................................................................................... 21
Are polymers considered plastic............................................................................................. 21
Difference between polymers and plastics ............................................................................. 21
Impact of Plastic and Polymers to Environment ..................................................................... 23
REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................ 25

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1. POLYMERS
Polymers (derived from the Greek roots poly (many), mono (one) and meros (part))
- Polymers are like big, impressive macromolecules made up of smaller parts called
monomers. These monomers join together through a process called polymerization,
forming long chains known as polymer chains. Imagine it as building with LEGO bricks,
where the individual bricks (monomers) snap together to create a larger structure
(polymer).
Each type of polymer has its own unique set of monomers, and when they link up,
they make different materials with specific uses. For example, plastic bags are made from
a polymer called polyethylene, while water bottles are made from another polymer called
polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
So, in simple terms, polymers are like macromolecular building blocks that come
together to create a variety of materials we use every day. This understanding of polymers
sets the stage for exploring their diverse applications and significance in various
industries. But before we proceed with its applications, let's delve deeper into the nature
of polymers.

Polymers, sometimes called plastics, are special materials

that can be easily molded or shaped. The term 'plastics' is
used because some polymers, like polyethylene, can
change their shape without breaking easily. Polymers are
also known as resins. While resins originally came from
natural sources like trees, today, we mostly make them
synthetically, creating a wide range of useful materials.
As mentioned, Polymers come in two main types:
synthetic and natural. Synthetic polymers are created
by humans using chemicals. Think of them as man-
made and often used in things like plastic bags. On the
other hand, natural polymers are found in nature,
coming from natural sources like plants and animals.
These occur without human intervention and have been
used for a long time, like the natural polymers found in
silk or the cellulose in plants.

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1.2 PROPERTIES OF POLYMERS

➢ Mechanical Properties
• Polymers are capable of stretching and deforming under load and recovering their
original shape after removal of the load highlighting its elastic behaviour.
• Polymers can permanently or viscously stretch and deform under load,
showcasing their plasticity. However, not all polymers are the same; some may be
crystalline and brittle.
• Polymers vary widely in strength, ranging from liquid-like flexibility to near-light-
metal strength. Generally, natural polymers have lower strength compared to
synthetic resins.

➢ Chemical Properties
• "Polymers vary in durability, with some resistant to degradation from natural,
environmental, and chemical factors. Natural polymers can be delicate, while
others are susceptible to depolymerization by organic acids. Some polymers are
highly soluble in organic solvents like chloroform and acetone."
• Synthetic polymers are generally water-repellent, with some exceptions that are
water-soluble. In contrast, many natural polymers are water-attracting (hydrophilic)
and influenced by water, although they are rarely fully soluble.

➢ Optical Properties
• Polymers exhibit a spectrum of structures, ranging from highly amorphous to highly
crystalline.
• Crystalline polymers are typically opaque in the optical frequency range.
• Amorphous polymers are typically transparent at visible light frequencies,
displaying a range from cloudy translucency to glass-like clarity.
• Biaxial stretching enhances transparency in initially non-transparent polymers.

1.3 POLYMER STRUCTURE

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➢ Linear Structure - Linear polymers a thermoplastic polymer, like spaghetti strands
with long polymer chains, are held together by weak bonds (weaker van der Waals)
or hydrogen bonding which are intermolecular forces. These thermoplastic polymers
soften when heated, allowing for easy reshaping. After cooling, the bonds reform,
causing the material to harden again.
➢ Branched Polymers - Branched polymers are akin to linear polymers, but with the
addition of shorter chains hanging off the main backbone, resembling spaghetti with
shorter strands. This branching makes them less dense than linear polymers as the
shorter chains disrupt efficient packing. The absence of short chains bridging between
longer backbones makes heat break the bonds between branched polymer chains,
turning them thermoplastic. Some intricate branched polymers resist melting,
becoming hard before softening; these are termed thermosetting polymers.
➢ Cross-linked Polymers - Imagine crosslinked polymers as a network resembling
ladders, where the chains connect from one backbone to another. What sets them
apart from linear polymers is their robust structure, held together by strong covalent
bonds instead of weaker forces like van der Waals. This sturdy bonding characteristic
➢ makes the majority of crosslinked polymers thermosetting, solidifying irreversibly with
exposure to heat. However, there are a few exceptions, where certain crosslinked
polymers can break their links at relatively lower temperatures.
➢ Networked Polymers - Complex polymers with extensive linkages form intricate
three-dimensional networks. These polymers resist softening upon heating, as any
attempt to do so typically results in degradation of the underlying polymer structure.
Due to this characteristic, they are classified as thermosetting polymers.

1.4 PROCESS OF POYLMERS

➢ Chain-Reaction (Addition) Polymerization

Monomers containing double bonds undergo a reaction where the double bond is broken,
and a single bond is formed with another monomer, creating a chain. In the diagram of
monomer units, two carbon atoms and four hydrogen atoms are incorporated into the
polymer structure through a chemical reaction. Bond lines in the diagram indicate that the
chain extends for many units, depending on the characteristic process of the monomer.
Examples of polymers produced using this process include polyethylene and
polypropylene and so on. Some common addition polymers are listed in Table.
These polymers as end products of addition polymerization are first undergo three main
steps of this type of polymerization:

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 1. Chain Initiation: This is the starting point or
beginning of addition polymerization, where free
radicals are formed. Free radicals are highly
reactive species or molecules with unpaired
electrons. They are generated from weak
molecular bonds such as organic peroxides, which
contain oxygen-oxygen single bonds. This initiation
process can be triggered by heat, light, or chemical
initiators.
2. Chain Propagation: Chain propagation occurs
when free radicals interact with monomer
molecules, leading to the formation of new bonds
that extend the growing polymer chain. This
repetitive process results in continuous elongation
of the polymer chain length as new monomer units
are added. This process continues until
termination, the next step in polymerization, occurs.
3. Chain Termination: Polymer growth is not
indefinite; eventually, the polymer chain growth
stops. Termination occurs, producing final
molecules of a size determined by the duration of
growth. This happens when two radicals collide or
combine, as they have already reached stability
and can no longer participate in polymerization
reactions.

➢ Step-Reaction (Condensation) Polymerization

In addition, polymerization, monomer units add together without the release of any
byproducts, resulting in the formation of long polymer chains. Conversely, condensation
polymerization involves monomers reacting with each other, leading to the elimination of
small molecules such as water, alcohol, or hydrogen chloride as byproducts. This
polymerization typically involves two different kinds of monomers, which causes the
elimination of these byproducts during the chemical reaction.

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2. HOW POLYMER CONNECTED TO CIVIL ENGINEERING?
As an engineering building material, polymers are important and directly related to civil
engineering because of their many uses, which have a big impact on building procedures
and improve the performance of structures. Because of their outstanding chemical and
physical capabilities, polymer materials are widely used in the construction industry.
Polymers are inexpensive to make and can be easily fabricated; they have a wide range
of applications and features. They are used in drainage pipes, wire and cable, wall
insulation, and water supply pipe insulation layers.
From improving the durability and flexibility of concrete to serving as the basis for
waterproofing membranes that protect against water damage, polymers play a pivotal
role. Their use extends to adhesives, sealants, and polymer composites, contributing to
the strength, stability, and longevity of buildings and infrastructure. Whether in
geotechnical applications for soil stabilization, repair and rehabilitation of damaged
structures using polymer-modified mortars, or enhancing asphalt, polymers are integral
to diverse aspects of civil engineering, offering innovative solutions for sustainable and
resilient construction.

2.1 TYPES OF POLYMERS AND HOW THEY ARE UTILIZED IN CONSTRUCTION

➢ Epoxy Resins
• A popular and favored polymer with a wide range of
construction applications is epoxy resin. Epoxy resins
are renowned for their exceptional performance and
longevity. They serve as the building blocks for
composite materials like carbon fiber and fiberglass, as
well as reinforced polymers, coatings, and adhesives
that hold up under adverse conditions.
• Epoxy resins create a very flexible and adaptable building material by bonding to
most polymers, metal, stone, glass, concrete, and wood. Epoxy is commonly used
in construction for laminated wood, walls, floors, and roofing. It is typically used in
outdoor coatings, sealers, primers, and heavy-duty protective coatings in painting
and coating.

➢ Ethyl Vinyl Acetate (EVA)

• Vinyl acetate and ethylene are copolymers that
combine to form ethylene vinyl acetate, or EVA, as it is
more widely known. EVA is a thermoplastic with
outstanding gloss and clarity that is both strong and
stretchy. Excellent adherence to a wide variety of polar
and nonporous substrates is just one of the many

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 noteworthy qualities of EVA. The product also offers high heat-sealing and hot-tack
properties, good flex-crack and puncture resistance, and a low cost.
• There are several applications for EVA in construction, including solar panel
encapsulation. EVA emulsions are used as adhesives on coated papers, metal
surfaces, and a variety of plastic sheets. Furthermore, EVA, wax, and resin
additives are used in the creation of hot-melt adhesives, hot glue sticks, and
premium soccer cleats.

➢ Polyethylene (PE)
• Polymerized ethylene (PE) is a synthetic resin with a
wide range of applications. It is a thermoplastic with a
changeable crystalline structure that is lightweight and
resilient. PE is a thermoplastic, which means that it will
not change much after being heated, chilled, and then
reheated. This property allows for easy molding and
recycling, unlike thermoset plastics, which require a
single heating cycle.
• Polymerized ethylene is used in a wide range of building applications, including
flooring, window films, countertop protection, vapor inhibitors, and roofing.
Polyethylene sheets are used for a variety of applications, including coatings, room
blocking, covering construction components, foam underlay, damp-proof
membranes, and lead poisoning prevention.

➢ Polycarbonate
• With a global demand of over 1.5 million tons,
polycarbonate is one of the construction engineering
plastics with the quickest rate of growth.
Polycarbonates are transparent, tough, hard, stiff, and
strong thermoplastics. Special grades can tolerate
temperatures as low as -20°C, and they can retain their
stiffness and toughness at temperatures as high as
140°C. Excellent mechanical qualities and high-
dimensional stability are given by the material. The material is also categorized as
a slow burner and has thermal resistance.
• High-performance thermoplastic polycarbonate is widely used in building and
construction products, such as windows, skylights, roof domes, wall panels, and
external LED lighting fixtures. Polycarbonate is perfect for these kinds of
applications since it is strong and lightweight, has excellent heat and impact
resistance, and is very flammability-resistant.

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2.2 ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF USING POLYMERS

➢ Advantages of Polymers

• Lightweight – The light weight of polymers is one of their main benefits. This
implies that they can be utilized to create goods like lightweight auto parts or plastic
bottles that are simple to handle and transport.
• Versatility – Polymers are highly adaptable, allowing for the creation of an
immense variety of products. They may be used to create anything from
electronics to clothes by molding them into a variety of sizes and forms.
• Durability – Polymers also have the benefit of being incredibly durable. They have
a long lifespan and can tolerate a great deal of wear and tear before needing to be
replaced. They are therefore an excellent option for long-lasting products.
• Cost-Effective – Producing polymers is also quite affordable. They are a popular
option for a wide range of items since they can be produced in big quantities at a
relatively low cost.
• Resistance to Corrosion – Lastly, because polymers frequently exhibit corrosion
resistance, they can be employed in settings where other materials could break
down or corrode. This makes them an excellent option for items like outdoor
equipment or automotive parts that are subjected to hostile environments.

➢ Disadvantages of Polymers:

• Environmental Impact – The environmental impact of polymers is one of its main

drawbacks. It can take hundreds of years for many polymers to decompose since
they are not biodegradable. Pollution and danger to wildlife may result from this.
• Flammability – Additionally, polymers have a significant potential for flames to
ignite and spread swiftly. In some settings, like buildings or airplanes, this could be
deadly.
• Low Melting Point – Certain polymers can melt or distort when exposed to high
temperatures because they have a low melting point. In some applications, like the
automotive industry, this might be an issue.
• Limited Strength – Although polymers are strong materials, they could not be as
strong as metals. This implies that applications requiring a high degree of strength
or toughness might not be a good fit for them.
• Chemical Sensitivity – Additionally vulnerable to some substances, polymers
may eventually disintegrate or degrade. This might be an issue in settings where
the polymer is subjected to chemicals, such the healthcare sector.

2.3 APPLICATION OF POLYMERS IN CONSTRUCTION

• Solid Resin and Terrazzo • Glazing Sealants
Flooring • Waterproof Membranes

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 • Anchor Fixings
• Adhesives
• Surfaces
• Solar Panel Encapsulants • Sinks
• Sound Insulation
• Concrete Moulds • Water Pipes
• Insulation • Waste Pipes
• Packaging
• Sealants
• Lighting Housings • Concrete Jointing
• Fittings in Hot Water Systems
• Glazing
• Sealants
• FRP Bridge Sections • Concrete Jointing
• Cladding Panels
• Sinks
• Surfaces
• Coatings
• Bridge Bearings
• Foam Underlay • Flooring
• Damp-Proof Membranes
• Coatings

2.4 IMPORTANCE OF POLYMERS IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

➢ History of Polymer Materials
Alexander Parkes created the first celluloid thermoplastic, called Parkesine, in 1850
with the goal of producing an inexpensive substitute for ivory. People quickly discovered,
though, that it could be molded into sheets that were both stronger and thinner than paper.
Bakelite, the world's first wholly synthetic material, was created in 1907 by Leo
Baekeland. The modern polymers we know today were made possible by these two
innovations.
➢ Uses of Polymers in Construction Today
Plumbing, home appliances, electronic components, and other building materials
frequently contain contemporary polymer materials. Although these adaptable
compounds have been present for over a century, their use as building materials has only
just started to increase. These days, polymers can be used for almost every kind of
construction project, including pipes, light fixtures, window frames, shingles, insulation,
exterior insulation panels (EIP), and much more.

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➢ Future Trends for the Application of Polymers
Although we've grown used to constructing with steel, concrete, or wood,
advancements in polymer technology are continuously expanding the realm of
possibilities. We can now construct enormous stadiums, complex buildings, and river
crossings without foundations in a matter of months thanks to new materials. These
polymer materials will only get better and be more valuable for a variety of construction
uses as new technologies advance.
Polymers' many uses and characteristics make them essential to civil engineering.
They make building materials more resilient to UV rays, moisture, and chemicals, hence
extending the life of structures. Their corrosion resistance is vital in severe situations, and
their lightweight nature is advantageous in applications where weight is a factor.
Polymers are widely utilized in repair and rehabilitation operations, providing flexibility
and the ability to tolerate movements and vibrations without breaking down, hence
extending the service life of infrastructure. Additionally, they are essential for adhesion,
insulation, waterproofing, and recycling-related sustainability initiatives. Polymer science
breakthroughs result in novel materials that hold promise for solving difficult problems in
civil engineering and, in the end, enhance the durability and performance of infrastructure
systems.

3. PLASTICS
Plastic, polymeric material that has the capability of being molded or shaped, usually
by the application of heat and pressure. This property of plasticity, often found in
combination with other special properties such as low density, low electrical conductivity,
transparency, and toughness, allows plastics to be made into a great variety of products.
These include tough and lightweight beverage bottles made of polyethylene terephthalate
(PET), flexible garden hoses made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), insulating food containers
made of foamed polystyrene, and shatterproof windows made of polymethyl
methacrylate.
3.1 PLASTICS MADE OF WHAT?
• Plastics are made from natural materials such as cellulose, coal, natural gas, salt
and crude oil through a polymerisation or polycondensation process.
• Plastics are derived from natural, organic materials such as cellulose, coal, natural
gas, salt and, of course, crude oil. Crude oil is a complex mixture of thousands of
compounds and needs to be processed before it can be used. The production of
plastics begins with the distillation of crude oil in an oil refinery. This separates the
heavy crude oil into groups of lighter components, called fractions. Each fraction
is a mixture of hydrocarbon chains (chemical compounds made up of carbon and
hydrogen), which differ in terms of the size and structure of their molecules. One
of these fractions, naphtha, is the crucial compound for the production of plastics.

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3.2 PROPERTIES OF PLASTICS
• They are light in weight and are chemically stable.
• Easily moulded into different shapes and sizes.
• Good insulation and low thermal conductivity.
• Good impact resistance and they do not rust.
• Good transparency and wear resistance.
• Poor dimensional stability and can be easily deformed.
• Low processing cost.
3.3 DIFFERENT TYPES OF PLASTIC
Thermoplastics - The term ‘thermoplastic’ refers to plastics that do not undergo any
chemical changes when subjected to high temperatures. These plastics do not undergo
any changes in their chemical structures and chemical compositions when subjected to
heat and can be changed into a soft state and remolded multiple times.
Thermosetting Plastics - They are also known as thermosets, and are plastics that can
be molded only once and do not change shape on applying heat. These plastics can only
be molded once and they cannot be softened on further heating. These plastics undergo
degradation and become damaged when exposed to a large amount of heat.
3.4 MOLECULAR STRUCTURES OF PLASTIC
Polymerization - Polymers are macromolecules that are based on a structure built up,
chiefly or completely, from a large number of similar structural units bonded together.
Often called chains, the polymer consists of repeating units, similar to links.
Intermolecular Bonding - As indicated, polymerization results in the formation of
multiple individual polymer chains made up of repeating units. A key aspect of polymeric
materials is that the chains are entangled within each other. The individual chains are not
covalently bonded to each other, but instead rely on intermolecular forces, such as Van
der Waals forces, hydrogen bonding, and dipole interactions, to keep the chains from
disentangling.
Molecular Weight - Through the polymerization process, materials of relatively high
molecular weight, macromolecules, are produced. A key parameter of a polymer is its
molecular weight. Molecular weight is the sum of the atomic weights of the atoms
comprising a molecule.
Crystalline/Amorphous Structure - Another fundamental characteristic of polymeric
materials is the organization of their molecular structure. Broadly, plastics can be
categorized as being semi-crystalline or amorphous. Understanding the implications of
the structure, and specifically, the crystallinity, is important as it affects material selection,
part design, processing and the ultimate anticipated service properties.

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3.5 EXAMPLES OF PLASTIC
• Polypropylene (PP) is a type of polyolefin that is slightly harder than polyethylene.
It is a commodity plastic with low density and high heat resistance.
• Polyethylene or polythene is a type of polyolefin. It is often abbreviated as PE. It
is lightweight, durable, and one of the most commonly produced plastic. Used for
frozen food bags, bottles, cereal liners, yogurt containers, etc.
• Polycarbonate is a tough, transparent plastic material with outstanding strength,
stiffness, and impact resistance.
• Thermosetting plastics are made up from long chains of molecules that are
cross-linked. They have a very rigid structure. Once heated, thermosetting plastics
can be moulded, shaped and pressed into shapes.
• Polystyrene, also known as poly-phenylethene, is a polymer made up of repeating
molecules called styrene. It is a thermoplastic polymer, meaning it softens and
melts when heated and can be reused.
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC or Vinyl) is a high-strength thermoplastic material. It is
the world's third-most widely produced synthetic plastic polymer.
• PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is a type of resin and a form of polyester; it is
commonly labelled with the code on or near the bottom of bottles and other
containers.
3.6 PROCESS OF PLASTICS
➢ Injection Molding
It is an injection molding method. With the development of the economy, people have
higher requirements for product quality in industrial production. Injection molding is the
most widely used plastic molding method because
the industry is the most precise and can produce
higher precision products.
Injection molding is at a certain temperature,
through the screw stirring, completely melted plastic
material, with high pressure shot into the mold cavity,
the method of forming products after cooling and
curing.
The following are injection molding processes:
① Mold closing, ④ Cooling,

② Injection plastic, ⑤ Mold opening,

③ Pressure holding, ⑥ Take out the products

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➢ Extrusion Molding
Extrusion molding is in non-rubber extrusion
machine processing using hydraulic pressure in
the mold itself extrusion weighing pressure. It is
heat plasticized, the side is pushed forward by the
screw, continuous through the head, and made
into various cross-section products or semi-
products of a process ing method.
Thermoplastic or thermosetting molds are loaded into the hopper and barrel. They are
heated, plasticized, and pushed forward by screw placement through a nozzle with the
desired section.
➢ Blow Molding
Blow molding is a rapidly developing
plastic processing method. During World War
II, the blow molding process began to produce
low-density polyethylene vials. In the late
1950s, with the birth of high-density
polyethylene and the development of blow
molding machines, blow molding technology
was widely used. The volume of hollow vessels can reach thousands of liters, and some
production has been computerized. Suitable for blow molding plastic polyethylene,
polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polyester, etc., the resulting empty container is widely
used as an industrial packaging container.
The heated thermoplastic extrusion tube is placed between the two halves of the
open die, and the gas pressure is applied to make it expand against the closed die
sidewall, open the die, and push out the product.
➢ Rotational Molding
Rotational molding is a plastic manufacturing technique used
to create large, hollow plastic parts such as tanks, containers, and
playground equipment. The process involves rotating a mold
around two perpendicular axes while plastic material is added to
the mold and heated until it forms a solid layer. Rotational molding
is a cost-effective method used to create complex shapes with
consistent wall thickness and excellent durability.
Rotational molding is particularly suitable for creating large, hollow parts that cannot
be easily made with other molding techniques. The process can also produce parts with
consistent wall thickness and excellent durability, making it ideal for creating products
such as water tanks, playground equipment, and large storage containers.

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➢ Compression Molding
Compression molding is the most common
process used with thermosetting materials and is
usually not used for thermoplastics. With this
process, the material is squeezed into its desired
shape with the help of pressure and heat. Plastic
molding powder and other materials are added to
the mix in order to create special qualities or to strengthen the final product. When the
mold is closed and heated, the material goes through a chemical change that causes it
to harden into its desired shape. The amount temperature, amount of pressure, and length
of time utilized during the process depends on the desired outcome.
➢ Thermoforming
Thermoforming uses a plastic sheet, which is
formed with the mold by applying air or through mechanical
assistance. The air pressure used can be nearly zero psi,
or several hundred psi. At 14 psi, which is equivalent to
atmospheric pressure, the pressure is created by
evacuating the space between the mold and the sheet.
This is known as vacuum forming.

4. HOW PLASTICS CONNECTED TO CIVIL ENGINEERING?

Plastics’ versatility makes them a must-have material in building and construction.
Their wide functionality offers distinct advantages over many other traditional building
materials in terms of resistance to weathering, flexibility for many uses and lower costs.
Plastic hardware doesn’t rust, so it can survive outside in any weather, indefinitely.
Plastic components used in construction include electric wiring, flooring, wall covering,
waterproofing, fasteners, pipes, valves, fittings, hinges and decorative touches.
Plastics in construction are mainly used for seals, profiles (windows and doors), pipes,
cables, floor coverings, and insulation. They have strength with lack of weight, they are
easily formable, and their light weight enables them to be easily transported and moved
on site.
4.1 THE TYPES OF PLASTIC USED IN CONSTRUCTION
• Corrugated or fluted polypropylene — ideal for soil retention and temporary
flooring
• HDPE — perfect for reveal strips for tilt-up panels when pouring concrete
structures
• Polycarbonate and Lexan — often used for skylights and safety glasses

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 • Acrylic — frequently chosen for light fixtures or decorative elements
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) — regularly selected for a wide range of applications;
foam PVC sheets are used for displays and kiosks
• Polystyrene — incorporated into insulation boards and wall panels
• Polyurethane — used in everything from insulation panels to flooring and roofing
materials
4.2 PROPERTIES OF PLASTICS AS A CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL
1. Chemical Resistance of Plastics - Plastics offer great resistance against chemicals
and solvents. Chemical composition of plastics during manufacturing will decide the
degree of chemical resistance.
2. Dimensional Stability - Thermo-plastic types of plastics can be easily reshaped and
reused. But in the case of thermo-setting type plastics, it is not possible to reshape or
remold the material.
3. Ductility of Plastics - Ductile nature of plastic is very low. When tensile stress is
acting on plastic member they may fail without any prior indication.
4. Durability of Plastics - Plastics with sufficient surface hardness are having good
durability. Sometimes, plastics may be affected by termites and rodents especially in
the case of thermo-plastic types, however it is not a serious problem because of no
nutrition values in plastic.
5. Electric Insulation - Plastics are good electric insulators. So, they are used as linings
for electric cables and for electronics tools.
6. Fire Resistance - The resistance to temperature or fire for varieties of plastics
considerably varies depending upon the structure. Plastics made of cellulose acetate
are burnt slowly. PVC made plastics do not catch fire easily. Plastics made of phenol
formaldehyde and urea formaldehyde are fire proof materials. plastics have very low
melting point. Some plastics may melt at just 50oC. So, they cannot be used in the
positions of high temperature. To improve the heat resistance of the plastics, glass
fiber reinforcement is provided in its structure.
7. Fixing - Fixing of plastic materials is so easy. We can bolt, drill or glued to fix plastic
material position.
8. Humidity - The plastics made up of cellulosic materials are affected by the presence
of moisture. The plastics made of poly vinyl chloride (PVC pipes) offers great
resistance against moisture.
9. Maintenance - Maintaining of plastics are so simple. Because they do not need any
surface finishing coats or paints etc.
10. Optical Property - There are so many types of plastics. Some plastics are transparent
which allows light in its original direction and some are translucent nothing but semi-
transparent which allows light but changes light rays’ direction.
11. Recycling of Plastics - Disposal of plastics in the environment causes severe
pollution. But it is not a serious problem because of its recycling property. We can use
plastic waste disposal conveniently to produce drainage pipes, fencing, hand rails,
carpets, benches etc.

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12. Sound Absorption - By the saturation of phenolic resins we can produce acoustic
boards. These acoustic boards are sound absorbents and provide sound insulation.
Generally, for theatres, seminar halls this type of acoustic ceilings are used.
13. Thermal Property - The thermal conductivity of plastics is very low and is similar to
wood. So, foamed and expanded plastics are used as thermal insulators.
14. Weather Resistance - Most of the plastics except some limited varieties are capable
of resistance against weathering. But major problem is plastics when the plastics are
exposed to sunlight, they are seriously affected by ultra violet rays and gets brittle. To
prevent this, plastics are incorporated by fillers and pigments which helps to absorb
or reflect the UV rays to surface.

4.3 USES OF PLASTICS IN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

Plastics are manufactured in different forms such as molding pipes, sheets and
films. They are formed or expanded to produce materials of low density. Dissolved in
solvents or dispersed as emulsions, they are used in paints, varnishes and adhesives. At
present, plastics find use in buildings mainly in thin coverings, panels, sheets, foams,
pipes etc. skillful use of plastics will expand the usefulness and life of conventional
building materials and help them to function more efficiently and economically. A wide
range of applications of plastics in buildings are given below:
1) Flooring - Plastic materials like polyethylene and PVC are widely used to
manufacture following that is less prone to wear and tear. Moreover, it also
decreases the level of sound pollution and can be easily cleaned.
2) Roofing - Two layers of plastic materials are used to ensure that there is no
damage to the roof. One layer of plastic, which is the upper part, is made of
thermoplastic olefin or vinyl, whereas the lower part is made of polyurethane foam.
These plastic materials consume less heat and ensure that the interior of the house
is kept cooler.
3) Insulation - Polyurethane spray is frequently used for insulation when constructing
green or low-energy buildings. Rigid polyurethane foam is known for its high
thermal resistance which promotes temperature consistency. Polyurethane foam
is also popular because it is lightweight, chemical resistant, and flame retardant.

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 Due to its closed-cell nature, polyurethane insulation performs as an air barrier,
resulting in significant energy savings.
4) Pipes - Pipes that are used in construction are commonly made from polyethylene,
PVC, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and CPVC. They are known for being
extremely lightweight and flexible, making them easy to install. They are also water
and chemical resistant, making them ideal for harsh environments.
5) Windows - Compared to regular glass windows, polycarbonate is known for being
more burglar-proof. Plastic materials like fiberglass and vinyl are also used to
manufacture window frames. Vinyl is extremely inexpensive and strong, whereas
vinyl is known for its impact resistance.
6) Doors - Many construction projects use polyurethane foam with a fiber-reinforced
plastic (FRP) coating for manufacturing doors. This structure makes them
incredibly strong.
4.4 ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF USING PLASTIC
➢ Advantages Of Using Plastic

• Plastics are durable as they are not biodegradable and so can withstand for a long
period of time.
• Plastics possess very good strength and toughness which does not let it deform
its shape.
• Plastics are cheap to produce and can be very easily found in the market by the
buyer for building a home.
• They can be reused if dismantled and can be easily joint with other plastics as in
case of plumbing.

➢ Disadvantages Of Using Plastic

• Majority of the world’s pollution found in the oceans are mainly due to plastic which
is killing animals of all kind since they are consuming plastic or getting trapped in
them.
• Although plastics are cheaper to be found, it impacts lives of people which in turn
is costlier.
• Plastics tend to soften at elevated temperatures. This restricts its use in main
structural elements and also in hot water systems.
• Cold climates can cause the plastic to become brittle and fracture under pressure.
So, it is advisable not to be used in cold climatic conditions.
• Plastics are difficult for recycling, and there rises concern over their decomposing
as many plastics take millions of years to decompose.
• Plastics have a low modulus of elasticity, making them unsuitable for load-bearing
applications like beams and columns.

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 • Although the fireproof property exists in plastic, many varieties of plastics have
high thermal expansion rates, which requires more detail in design to allow
adequate thermal movement.

4.4 IMPORTANCE OF PLASTIC IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

• The construction industry has a tendency towards traditional materials, tried and
tested methods and products - but plastics offer opportunities for innovation.
• The Construction sector is the second highest user of plastics after packaging.
• Plastics are used in a growing range of applications in the construction industry.
They have great versatility and combine excellent strength to weight ratio,
durability, cost effectiveness, low maintenance and corrosion resistance which
make plastics an economically attractive choice throughout the construction
sector.
• Plastics in construction are mainly used for seals, profiles (windows and doors),
pipes, cables, floor coverings, and insulation. Potentially, plastics have further used
as they do not rot, rust or need regular re-painting, they have strength with lack of
weight, they are easily formable, and their light weight enables them to be easily
transported and moved on site.

5. POLYMER VS. PLASTIC

5.1 WHY IS POLYMER BETTER THAN PLASTICS?
Polymer is better than plastic due to numerous instances are more flexible, sustainable,
and biocompatible.
Polymers produced from natural sources, lignin, cellulose, silk, and cotton.
Some are commonly utilized in clothes, textiles, coatings, and adhesives due to their
flexibility. Because these materials are naturally occurring, they degrade faster in nature
than manmade polymers.
Finally, deciding whether polymer or plastic is better depends on the application and
volume of parts required. Because of polymer outstanding chemical and physical
qualities, polymer materials have been widely used in the construction sector, including:
• wall insulation
• wire and cable
• drainage pipe
• insulation layers for water supply pipes.
In addition to self-healing polymers, a smart or reactive polymer might be created that
can alter in response to its surroundings. For example, in response to a change in ambient
temperature, chemical agent, or light.

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5.2 ARE POLYMERS STRONGER THAN PLASTIC?
Polymers are not as strong as plastic.
Consider that plastics are always made up of big molecules known as polymers. Polymers
are made up of numerous similar tiny particles connected together like a chain. The
lengthy molecular chains make the polymers robust and durable, and they do not
breakdown in water.
5.3 ARE POLYMERS CONSIDERED PLASTIC
All plastics are polymers, but not all polymers are plastics,
Yes, all polymers generated from petroleum, including thermoplastics and thermosets,
are classified as plastics. Also to give you an idea not all polymers are considered plastics.
However all plastics, are classified as polymers since they include repeating units of
chains of chemicals produced from petroleum. The durability of plastic comes from the
long molecule chains that create it.
They ensure that the polymer is strong and capable of withstanding wear and tear while
remaining flexible enough to handle a hit. That's why plastic can be strong, but its true
durability comes from the materials that make it.

5.4 DIFFERENCE BETWEEN POLYMERS AND PLASTICS IN TERMS OF:

➢ Impact Strength
Polymer Plastics
By integrating polymer fibers into the Flexibility: Plastics have a wide range of
concrete mixture, construction architectural applications. Because of its
professionals can produce structures inherent malleability, plastics may be
that can handle more loads and resist manipulated and produced to fulfill
cracks, boosting the overall almost any design specification. This
performance and lifespan of buildings flexibility enables architects and builders
and infrastructure projects. to achieve novel and sophisticated
design concepts, hence boosting the
usage of plastic in construction and
building.
Increased Flexural Strength: Polymer Their exceptional resistance to
fibers transmit load more effectively, environmental elements such as severe
boosting flexural strength and weather, rot, and corrosion extends the
minimizing crack propagation. life of structures, reducing the need for
frequent repair or replacement.

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 Reduced Shrinkage Cracks: Polymer Durability: Plastics used in building are
fibers limit the creation of shrinkage exceptionally durable, surpassing many
cracks, lowering maintenance costs and traditional construction materials.
providing long-term durability.
Improved Impact Resistance: Because It is a crucial quality for polymers and
PFRC absorbs more energy when plastics that are subjected to impact
struck, it is a better choice for impact- loading, such as collisions, drops, or
prone structures like bridges and blows, throughout service.
pavements.
Enhanced Durability: PFRC's resistance Many factors influence impact
to cracking and higher tensile strength resistance, including polymer type,
extends its lifespan and decreases structure, and composition,
maintenance requirements. temperature, humidity, and frequency of
impact, as well as the geometry, size,
and speed of the impactor.

➢ Physical Aging
Physical aging is the gradual relaxation of polymer chains to a lower energy state after
being quenched or frozen below their glass transition temperature, resulting in
• Increased density
• stiffness,
• strength
• brittleness
while decreasing the
• free volume,
• mobility
• ductility
• toughness.
Chemical aging is the progressive reaction of polymer chains with oxygen, water, or
other chemicals that causes degradation or cross-linking, resulting in a decrease in
molecular weight, gloss, and ductility while increasing color, brittleness, and cross-link
density.
Thermal aging is the gradual exposure of the polymer to high temperatures that
produce thermal deterioration or oxidation, resulting in a loss in molecular weight,
mechanical characteristics, and thermal stability, as well as an increase in color and
brittleness.

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Environmental Impacts
➢ Polymers
Temperature can alter the polymer's molecular mobility, crystallinity, and glass
transition, all of which affect stiffness, strength, and ductility.
Higher temperatures make polymers more ductile and less brittle, whereas lower
temperatures make them more brittle and less ductile.
Humidity impacts the polymer's:
• moisture absorption
• swelling
• hydrolysis
• altering its dimensional stability
• interfacial bonding
• chemical resistance.
Innovative uses of polymer fibers in building are altering the industry. Incorporating
these fibers into diverse materials provides multiple benefits, including increased
durability, strength, fire resistance, lower environmental impact, and cost savings. As
technology advances, polymer fibers are likely to become more common in construction
projects.
In general, increased humidity makes it more plasticized and less rigid, whereas
low humidity makes it more rigid and less plasticized.

➢ Plastics
• Plastic garbage provides more than just a short-term remedy; it also has long-term
benefits.
• These recycled materials are long-lasting, resistant to moisture, and can weather
the test of time, ensuring the viability of construction projects. Furthermore, they
come in a variety of plastics, each ideal for a specific construction use, increasing
their versatility in the building and construction industry.
• This adaptability of waste plastic can assist to reduce garbage that ends up in
incineration facilities
• Plastics can provide a consistent construction material to the building sector, and
allow contractors to employ more sustainable materials.

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Environmental Concerns
➢ Plastic
Plastics are a versatile and long-lasting substance that is commonly employed in modern
civilization. They are utilized in a range of industries, including in the construction
materials.
However, the manufacture and usage of plastics have a negative impact on the
environment, such as:
• waste generation
• greenhouse gas emissions.
• There is a rising effort to adopt biodegradable and compostable plastics.
• Both the extraction of raw materials and the manufacturing process emit
greenhouse gases, which can contribute to climate change.
These materials are intended to degrade more quickly in the environment, hence reducing
the quantity of waste generated by plastic manufacture and consumption.
As it can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills. This can pollute the soil and
water, as well as endanger wildlife, which may consume or become entangled in plastic
garbage. Plastic manufacture demands a substantial amount of energy and resources.

➢ Polymer
Polymer materials degrade when exposed to heat, light, water, and chemicals during the
processing, usage, and waste stages.
While physical and chemical degradation changes the structure and properties of
polymeric materials, it can also cause the release of plastic-associated chemicals like;
• Plasticizers
• Antioxidants
• monomers/oligomers
Degradation products into nearby water, soil, or air, posing a risk to the environment and
ecosystems.

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