Composite materials from waste plastics: A sustainable approach for waste management and resource utilization

The increasing production and improper disposal of plastic waste present a major global environmental challenge, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions. This review thoroughly examines the use of waste plastics in composite material production, providing a dual benefit: reducing environmental impact while creating valuable materials. This review examines the scale and ecological impact of plastic waste, focusing on various types of waste plastics, such as thermoplastics and thermosets. In-depth discussion includes various processing techniques such as melt blending, compression molding, extrusion, and injection molding. The review discusses various reinforcing materials used with waste plastics, including other polymers, natural and synthetic fibers, sand, clay, fly ash, and additional recycled materials. The focus is on analyzing mechanical, thermal, physical, and chemical properties, considering factors like waste plastic-type, reinforcement type, processing parameters, and additives. This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and policymakers aiming to find sustainable solutions for plastic waste management and to promote a circular economy.