An alternative to cement concrete block has been developed by Thiagarajar College of Engineering (TCE), here.

The new ‘Plastone block technology' developed by the Department of Chemistry, follows the earlier ‘Plastic road technology' and patented too.

The Plastone blocks are an admixture of waste plastics and stones and have been found to be five times stronger than the cement concrete block and is able to withstand more pressure and resist percolation of water. It has many advantages over the conventional blocks made of cement, according to Dr R. Vasudevan, Dean, TCE.

Each plastone block consumes 300 plastic carry bags and four to six PET bottles. It weighs light and has high transverse strength. In terms of cost, it is a little less than a cement block. Large-scale production will bring down the prices still. These bloicks can be used for flooring especially outdoor, in raising compound walls and lining of canals

Speaking to Business Line , he said that these blocks will help in speedy disposal of waste plastics including e-waste that pose danger to the environment. The machinery required for manufacture of plastone has also been designed at TCE. The process has had enquiries and an industrialist from Coimbatore is engaged in its manufacture. An enquiry from Dubai for its supply to be used as stands for power generators has also been received, he added.

Published on February 22, 2012