Scientists in Indonesia have proposed an innovative solution to address low-cost housing needs by using diapers in concrete mixtures.
The research outlined the difficulties in recycling diapers, which involve intricate procedures for separating plastic components from organic fibers. To test the viability of diaper waste in construction, the researchers prepared concrete and mortar samples by combining washed, dried, and shredded disposable diapers with cement, sand, gravel, and water. The samples were cured and subjected to pressure tests to measure their strength.
While the study highlighted the lack of infrastructure for collecting, washing, and shredding diapers, as well as the need for the careful calculation to maintain structural integrity, using diapers as a low-cost alternative can alleviate landfill burdens compared to other recyclable materials. This unconventional approach could contribute to sustainable housing solutions in Indonesia and potentially inspire similar innovations globally.