Protocol of mechanical and physical test for lastic lumber according to colombian standards

Abstract

This article presents a protocol for mechanical and physical testing of plastic lumber, developed in accordance with Colombian technical standards NTC: 595, 6296, 6355, 943 and 467. The research arises in response to the environmental problems in Colombia derived from the inadequate management of plastic, where most of the waste ends up in landfills or rivers. The creation of new materials from recycled plastics, such as plastic lumber, offers a sustainable solution.  

The objective of the study is to develop a protocol to mechanically and physically characterize plastic lumber for use in civil construction and comply with legal requirements in Colombia. The evidence obtained through laboratory analysis will demonstrate its ability to comply with the earth-quake standard NSR-10, key for its adoption. The protocol includes tensile, compression, Shore D hardness, IZOD impact and flexural tests, following Colombian technical standards, as well as flammability and volumetric density tests. 

The study has resulted in a protocol for mechanical and physical testing of plastic lumber, focused on characterizing the material for use in civil construction. This represents an advance in the solution of environmental challenges associated with the inadequate management of plastic waste. Its implementation facilitates the use of plastic lumber in construction and supports the transition to a sustainable future.