Parametric Study of Reinforced Concrete Columns Embedded with PET Bottles Under Compression

Area of Science:

• Civil Engineering
• Materials Science
• Sustainable Construction

Background:

• Reinforced concrete columns are critical structural elements.
• Sustainable construction practices are increasingly important.
• Recycling polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles presents disposal challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the structural behavior of reinforced concrete columns using PET bottles as void formers.
• To evaluate the feasibility of incorporating recycled PET bottles in concrete structures.
• To assess the impact of PET bottle voids on axial compressive load-carrying capacity and ductility.

Main Methods:

• Finite element analysis (FEA) using ABAQUS software.
• Validation of the FEA model with experimental results from 16 scaled columns (8 solid, 8 hollow).
• Parametric study varying reinforcement ratios, tie spacing, concrete strength, and void dimensions.

Main Results:

• Voided columns using PET bottles exhibited structural behavior comparable to solid concrete columns under axial compression.
• Concrete compressive strength and longitudinal reinforcement ratio were key factors influencing load capacity and stiffness.
• Tie spacing and void diameter had moderate effects on performance.
• Hollow columns showed potential for increased flexural capacity due to a larger moment arm.

Conclusions:

• Incorporating PET bottles as void formers is a viable sustainable approach for reinforced concrete columns.
• The structural integrity and performance of voided columns are not compromised under axial loading.
• This method offers a dual benefit of reducing concrete usage and recycling PET waste.