Measurement of Durability in a Structural Sandwich Panel Consists of Rubber and Plastic Waste

Abstract

The rising accumulation of rubber and plastic waste has become a serious environmental concern, particularly in Malaysia, where disposal issues contribute to pollution and health risks. At the same time, the construction sector seeks affordable, lightweight, and sustainable materials that still offer reliable strength and durability. This study responds to both issues by exploring the development of sandwich panels made from recycled rubber and plastic waste. The objective is to evaluate the durability performance of these panels when used as structural components. The research employs an experimental methodology, where sandwich panels were fabricated using waste rubber and plastic as face sheets bonded to a polyurethane (PU) foam core, followed by mechanical testing including flexural and deflection tests. These tests measured load-bearing capacity, bending strength, and elasticity, with analysis based on load-deflection graphs and failure observations. Results from the flexural test showed the panel sustained a maximum load of 182.26 N with a displacement of 33.86 mm before failure, indicating high flexibility but only moderate strength. The deflection test revealed consistent sagging, increasing to 3.66 mm under a 70kN load, with linear behavior at low loads but reduced stiffness beyond 5 kg. These findings suggest that while the panels may not yet be suitable for high-impact or structural flooring, they perform adequately in low-load areas such as storage rooms, service platforms, or temporary installations. Although mechanical performance remains limited for heavy-duty use, ongoing material optimization could improve their load resistance and expand their application in mainstream construction. Future research may explore hybrid core configurations or fiber reinforcement to enhance strength without compromising sustainability. In conclusion, sandwich panels composed of recycled plastic and rubber exhibit moderate strength and high flexibility, making them appropriate for low-load applications. They hold great promise as environmentally friendly substitutes in the building sector with additional material advancements