Potential construction applications for thermoset composite scrap material

Thermoset composites are types of advanced plastics that perform well in high temperatures and pressures, can achieve tensile strengths similar to carbon steel, and have suitable electrical resistance properties. Because of these characteristics, engineers are increasing their use in the designs of both mechanical and electrical products, thus increasing the amount of thermoset scrap material sent to landfill sites (estimated to be approximately 1.2 billion kg per year (920,000 t). As a way to reduce the amount of this scrap material taken to landfill sites, possible construction applications are being investigated. Using American Society of Testing and Materials standards, a better understanding of its material properties are being explored, such as strength, density, uniformity, chemical resistance, and impact resistance. One potential application, developed and tested for its suitability as a construction material, was as a flooring substitute for traditional ceramic tile.