Ceramics-Silikáty 65, (1) 48 - 57 (2021)

This study focuses on the usage of alternative materials consisting of physical, mechanical and durability properties of cement mortars containing natural zeolite and plastic bottle waste, as a substitute for the aggregate. Three different volume fractions of sand, 5%, 10% and 20%, were replaced by the same weight of PET aggregate granules. Natural zeolite replaced the cement at 0%, 10% and 20%. Despite its drawbacks, such as a decrease in the compressive strength and fire resistance, the use of waste PET aggregates presented advantages, such as a reduction in the density and water absorption and high frost resistance of the cement mortar. The result of this study indicated that a cement paste utilising 5% of waste PET and 10% natural zeolite showed a satisfactory compressive strength. In conclusion, the result of the study suggested that a cement paste with PET aggregates and natural zeolite could be used in civil engineering constructions for the purpose of saving the environment.