Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

INTRODUCTION

Rationale of the Study

Plastic waste continues to be one the biggest environmental concerns,

contributing to the contamination of landfills, rivers and oceans. Eco-bricks

are bricks made from garbage or plastic that has not been recycled (Li Y.

2022). Previous studies reveal that the material ratio, or the proportion of

the filler and the binder, influences the strength and durability of eco-bricks:

for instance, (Adiyanto et al., 2024) tests of different epoxy-resin to clay

ratios and PET particle sizes demonstrated that particular mixtures produced

eco-brick with very high compressive strength, and (El-Metwally et al.,2023)

PET or HDPE plastic improved compressive and tensile strength and

increased thermal resistance when utilized with small amounts (up to

~7.5%) of aggregates.

The Philippines ranks third globally in plastic waste input into the

ocean, generating about 1.88 million metric tons of mismanaged plastic

annually (Jambeck et al., 2015). . Plastic accumulation is “poorly reversible,”

harming nutrient cycles, biodiversity, and ecosystems (Macleod et al., 2021).

This study illustrates the potential of Green Antz’s eco-bricks as a solution to

plastic waste mismanagement. With over 100 million people, the Philippines

contributes 1/3 of global ocean plastic waste (Vergara et,.al 2024). The
findings highlight eco-bricks as low-cost, sustainable, and scalable approach

to managing waste whilst producing alternative building materials.

Global studies stress the immediate need to create alternatives in

response to the environmental concerns caused by traditional construction

materials (Marasigan et,.al 2025). Incorporating waste like plastics into eco-

bricks reduces garbage and shows potential structural effectiveness (Puri

et,.al 2022). As such, these studies present eco-bricks as a sustainable

product that balances waste management with sustainable development.

Eco-bricks, which are building blocks made up of different kinds of

waste combined with binding agents, are considered a sustainable solution

for minimizing waste and create alternative building materials. Eco-bricks are

mostly made from plastic waste such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

bottle eco-bricks or other waste materials. Existing studies test eco-bricks

using a singular type of composition, leaving limited data on how specific

compositions affect the strength and durability of the bricks. This indicates

that material ratios including plastic to cement ratio of eco-bricks needs

further investigation. In addition, there have been limited studies on solid

brick type eco-bricks. Moreover, there is a lack of testing of the thermal

resistance of eco-bricks with differing plastic to cement ratios. Additionally,

there is minimal research on optimized material ratios of eco-bricks that

balance sustainability and structural reliability. Thus, this illustrates the need
for further development of eco-bricks compositions and material ratios into a

sustainable and reliable product.

This study is guided by several key objectives that aim to explore the

potential of eco-bricks as a sustainable alternative to conventional

construction materials. Specifically, it seeks to determine the most cost-

effective and affordable material proportions for eco-brick production,

ensuring that the process remains both practical and accessible. It also aims

to evaluate the influence of different material ratios on the thermal

resistance of eco-bricks, thereby identifying their capacity to withstand

environmental conditions. Furthermore, the study endeavors to identify the

optimal material composition that achieves the best balance of strength and

durability, a crucial factor for construction applications. Finally, it intends to

analyze the potential advantages and limitations of eco-bricks with varying

material ratios, highlighting their feasibility, efficiency, and practical

relevance in different settings.

Theoretical Background

This study focuses on uncovering the optimal material ratio of plastic

and cement for eco-bricks. It is grounded in the established principles of

Composite Material Science Theory of Ronald F. Gibson et al. (1994) and The

Circular Economy Theory of Walter Stahel et al. (1976). These theories guide

the design of the eco-brick and the material ratios it will be composed of.

They also provide the theoretical foundation for eco-bricks made with
different material ratios between plastic and cement. Thus, encouraging

sustainable practices making it effective for study.

The Principles of Composite Material Theory, pioneered by Ronald F.

Gibson, its main premise is to simulate how the interaction of different

components determines the overall characteristics of the material, such as

its effective moduli and strength. Analytical methods are employed to

achieve this, including basic material mechanics and micromechanics, as

well as sophisticated elasticity theory and finite element methods. (Gibson,

R.F. 2012). Additionally, The Circular Economy Theory, has emerged as an

eco-friendly business model, tackles issues like high resource utilization,

environmental degradation, low efficiency, and economic instability.

Researchers have developed

Principles of The Circular Economy Solid Waste
Composite Material Theory (Walter Stahel Management Act of
Science Theory et al. 1976) 2000 (Republic Act No.
(Ronald F. Gibson 9003)
et.,al ,1994) -Employs a
sustainable economic -Law that aims to
-States that
strength and model that promotes protect the environment
durability of a a closed-loop system. through mandating
material come from This means resources waste segregation,
the interaction of its and wastes are recycling, and reduction
components reused or. of waste generation. It
regenerated encourages eco-friendly
and sustainable
environmental practices.

PROTOTYPE
SOLID TYPE ECO-BRICKS WITH DIFFERENT
MATERIAL RATIOS BETWEEN PLASTIC AND
CEMENT

Figure 1. Theoretical Background

responsive circular economy technique and sustainable way to address these

issues (Purushothaman, R,. et al. 2025). This theory emphasizes strategies

like reuse, repair, and recycling, which minimizes environmental harm and

encourages sustainable waste practices.

 Furthermore, this study is rooted in the national rule that encourages

the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 (Republic Act No. 9003).

This law states that proper waste segregation, management, and recycling

to protect the environment. Thus, research on eco-bricks aligns with the

objectives of this law by exploring plastic waste can be reused as an

alternative building material which provide a sustainable solution to solid

waste mismanagement in the Philippines.

In conclusion, by implementing the Principles of Composite Material

Theory and Circular Economy Theory will help the researchers identify viable

eco-bricks for construction and sustainability. When combined, these

theories will aid and serve as the basis for the development of this study, as

it enhances the process of discovering eco-bricks with the best material ratio

and as a sustainable alternative building material.

Variables of the Study

 Independent Variable. The independent variable of this study is

Material Ratio of Eco-Bricks, which refers to intentionally manipulated by the

researcher in the study it refers to material proportion of eco-bricks, which

includes ratios of plastic and cement waste found in making them comprises

50% plastic: 50 % cement, 70 %plastic: 30 %cement, 30% plastic: 70%

cement. Different combinations and amounts of these materials are tested to

determine which mix produces the best performance.

Dependent Variable. The dependent variable of this study is

Strength and Durability of Eco-Bricks, which refers to the factor measured as

an outcome of the changes made to the independent variable. In this study,

it is the strength and durability of eco-bricks, which indicates how much

weight or pressure they can withstand, and that can withstand heat, and how

long they last without breaking or deforming. These qualities are crucial in

assessing whether eco-bricks can serve as reliable building materials.

 THE PROBLEM

Statement of the Problem

This research aims to compare various eco-brick compositions by

evaluating the proportions of constituent materials and determining their

impact on the structural performance of the bricks and their cost-

effectiveness. Understanding these relationships is essential to optimize eco-

brick formulations for practical construction applications while ensuring

environmental benefits. Specifically, this study seeks to answer the following

questions:

[Link] do different material ratios in eco-brick compositions affect their

overall cost-effectiveness in terms of raw materials expenses?

2. What is the impact of varying material ratios on the thermal resistance of

eco-bricks?

2.1 Environmental Heat

2.2 Flammability Heat

[Link] material composition produces eco-bricks with the best balance of

strength and durability?

3.1 50% plastic:50% cement

3.2 70% plastic:30% cement

 3.3 30% plastic: 70% cement

[Link] are the possible advantages and limitations of using eco-bricks with

different material ratios in specific applications?

Hypothesis

This study hypothesizes that the ratio of plastic waste to cement

significantly affects the strength, durability, and thermal resistance of eco-

bricks. It assumes that certain material proportions will produce eco-bricks

with higher compressive strength and improved thermal resistance, while

others may result in weaker or less stable outputs. Conversely, the null

hypothesis posits that different material ratios of plastic and cement do not

produce significant differences in the strength, durability, or thermal

resistance of eco-bricks.

Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it explores eco-bricks as a sustainable and

cost-effective solution to two pressing issues: plastic waste mismanagement

and the rising demand for affordable construction materials. By determining

how different material ratios affect the strength and durability of eco-bricks,

the findings may provide valuable insights for the following stakeholders:

Student. This research fosters environmental awareness and hands-

on learning among students by highlighting the potential of eco-bricks as a

product of innovative waste management. Through participation in eco-brick

initiatives, students develop critical thinking, creativity, and sustainability-

oriented practices that may extend beyond school activities.

Construction Workers. The results of this study provide construction

workers with access to knowledge about alternative building materials that

are lighter, cost-efficient, and environmentally friendly. Furthermore, eco-

brick construction may offer new skill development and livelihood

opportunities while reducing reliance on costly conventional materials.

Local Community. Communities benefit from the reduced

accumulation of plastic waste, transformed into usable and durable materials

for local infrastructure. Eco-bricks can be applied to projects such as

pathways, benches, fences, and small structures, providing low-cost

alternatives that promote collective responsibility for waste management

and community development.

Future Researchers. This study contributes baseline data on the

impact of material ratios on the strength, durability, and thermal resistance

of eco-bricks. These findings may serve as reference for future studies

aiming to further optimize eco-brick compositions or explore their

applications on a larger construction scale. Moreover, it encourages future

investigations into innovative methods of recycling plastic waste and

integrating sustainable practices in the field of construction.

Scope and Delimitation

 This study focuses on the comparative analysis of eco-brick

compositions by testing different ratios of cement and shredded plastic

waste. Specifically, the study evaluates three mixtures: 50% cement and

50% shredded plastic waste (5:5), 30% cement and 70% shredded plastic

waste (3:7), and 70% cement and 30% shredded plastic waste (7:3). The

scope includes the preparation, molding, and testing of eco-bricks using a

single standard size. The evaluation will assess the eco-bricks’ performance

through three tests: flammability test, compressive strength test, and drop

test, which involves dropping the eco-brick from a certain height. The

collection of shredded plastic waste will be done inside the campus with the

participation of students, while the construction and testing will take place in

a designated hardware facility to ensure safety and proper handling of

materials. The study is delimited in several aspects. The variables are

restricted to the use of cement and shredded plastic waste as the only

components for eco-brick production. Other additives such as sand, soil, or

additional binding agents are fixed and not considered in the analysis. The

scope is also limited to one standard size of eco-brick and the three chosen

testing methods. Factors such as long-term durability under environmental

conditions, cost efficiency, large-scale production, and actual application of

eco-bricks in construction are beyond the focus of this study. These

delimitations are established to maintain the study’s concentration on the

material ratios and their direct impact on the strength and durability of eco-

bricks.
Definition of Terms

The following terms are defined to provide clarification and for better

understanding:

Eco-bricks. Solid type bricks made of differing material ratios of plastic and

cement while having a constant ratio of water and sand.

Plastic Waste. Discarded plastic materials collected within the campus, cut

or shredded into smaller pieces before being mixed with cement for eco-

brick production.
Cement. The primary binding agent, mixed with plastic wastes to form solid

type eco-bricks.

Material Ratio. The proportion of cement and shredded plastic waste used

in making eco-bricks. The specific ratios tested are 5:5 (50% cement, 50%

plastic), 3:7 (30% cement, 70% plastic), and 7:3 (70% cement, 30% plastic).

Cost-effectiveness. Producing eco-bricks that reduce raw material

expenses while maintaining acceptable strength and durability, compared to

conventional construction materials.

Strength. Ability of eco-bricks to withstand pressure or loads without

breaking.

Durability. Ability of eco-bricks to resist against impact and deformation,

tested through a drop test.

Flammability Test. Evaluation of how eco-bricks react when exposed to

direct heat or fire.

Environmental Heat. External conditions that simulate exposure of eco-

bricks to sunlight.

Sustainable Construction. Building practices that lower environmental

impact by using eco-bricks.