Eco-Innovative Geogrid Alternatives Using Recycled Plastics, End-of-Life Tires, and Natural Pozzolanic Additives for Sustainable Infrastructure Development

Abstract

Conventional polymeric geogrids are widely used for soil reinforcement; however, their application is increasingly limited by high production costs, limited recyclability, and environmental impacts associated with virgin polymers. This study proposes and experimentally validates a sustainable composite geogrid manufactured from recycled polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and chemically treated end-of-life tire rubber incorporated within a pozzolanic–cementitious matrix. Rubber particles were chemically treated to improve interfacial bonding, while recycled polymers were thermally processed into grid structures with controlled geometry. A comprehensive experimental program was conducted to evaluate the short-term and time-dependent mechanical behaviour of the developed material through tensile tests and compression creep tests under sustained loading. The results demonstrated satisfactory tensile strength ranging from 0.59 to 1.95 MPa, moderate stiffness, and improved resistance to creep deformation after 24 h of loading. Furthermore, the incorporation of recycled polymers and tire rubber significantly reduced the environmental impact and potential material cost. The developed material represents a promising sustainable alternative for geotechnical and coastal infrastructure applications, supporting circular-economy practices through the valorisation of plastic and tire waste into high-value geosynthetic products.