Current application of recycled waste plastics as a sustainable materials: A review on availability, processing and application

Abstract

Interest in green environment and sustainable materials in agreement with government regulations have been the motivating force for researchers and various industries globally in recent times. This current need for novel materials along with ever-increasing environmental apprehensions has prompted global researchers to intensify their activities in repurposing waste plastics. Waste plastics in many parts of the world, present a substantial menace to the environment on a global scale underscoring the necessity of this review to spotlight methods for safely and economically managing and converting these materials into valuable end products. The review paper reveals the accessibility and vast potential of a class of materials that was previously deemed as waste but now finding beneficial applications. Hence, diverse sectors where products from waste plastic-based materials are applicable such as construction, electronics, agriculture, automotive, household goods, sports gear, and fossil fuel were considered. Thus, the review reveals waste plastics as readily accessible raw materials for various applications, thereby, aiding in environmental pollution mitigation efforts and value addition to waste plastics.