ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDING

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
At the outset, we thank the almighty for the divine grace bestowed on us for the
completion of this project successfully on time.
I extremely grateful to the Head of department of civil engineering, Prof. Ms. S .Usha ,
and also thankful to our group tutors Asst. Prof. Ms. Anila PV and Asst. Prof. Ms. Geethu
Saji.
The motivation and driving force behind this project is our internal guide Associate. Prof.
Ms. Manju PM, in charge of design project, for the valuable guidance, for their
enterprising gratitude, timely suggestions and supports that made our project fruitful. We
express our sincere thanks to all the faculty members of the Civil Engineering
Department for their co-operation.
We are deeply indebted to our parents and all our friends for their constant
encouragement. They were instrumental in keeping our spirit high and their association is
to be always remembered.

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ABSTRACT
Energy efficiency is at the forefront of current debates about building technology. The
increasing global population, decreasing fossil-based energy resources, rising emissions
of harmful gases are the main motivators of energy efficiency in buildings. Although the
energy consumption of buildings varies according to factors such as social differences,
climate, geographical location, and cultural habits, it is estimated that around 40% of the
annual energy consumed in the world is used in the buildings today.
The building sector alone represents about 40% energy consumption. Realizing the
situation, the need of the day is to adopt sustainable green building design approach
which is the ultimate solution to reduce the energy demand of the building. Over usage of
conventional building materials not only cause global warming but also affects the
natural resources. Green or sustainable building use key resources like energy, water,
materials, and land more efficiently than buildings that are just built conventionally.
The paper thus deals with the various energy saving concepts which can be incorporated
at the time of planning, designing, construction and execution stage to have energy
efficiency in buildings.

Keywords: Energy efficiency, energy consumption, sustainable green buildings

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CONTENTS
SI NO TITLE PAGE NO:

1 INTRODUCTION……………………………………………….……..7
2 NEED OF ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDINGS……………….….......9
3 ENERGY STAR WINDOWS…………………………………………11
3.1 INTRODUCTION 11
3.2 BENEFITS OF ENERGY STAR QUALIFIED WINDOWS 12

3.3 THE ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF ENERGY STAR 13

3.4 MATERIALS USED 13

4 COOL ROOF………………………………………………………….16
4.1 INTRODUCTION 16
4.2 METHODOLOGY 16
4.3 MATERIALS USED 18

5 RAIN WATER HARVESTING…………………………….………...19

5.1 INTRODUCTION 19

5.2 CRITERIA FOR SELECTION OF RAINWATER 19

HARVESTING TECHNOLOGIES

5.3 OBJECTIVES 20

5.4 ADVANTAGES 20

5.5DISADVANTAGES 21

5.6 COMPONENTS OF A ROOF TOP RAIN HARVESTING 21

SYSTEM

5.6.1 Catchment 22

5.6.2 Conveyance (Pipe) 22

5.6.3 First Flush 23

5.6.4 Filter 24

5.6.5Storage 25

6 PLASTIC BRICKS……………………………………………………25

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6.1 INTRODUCTION 25

6.2. MATERIALS USED 26

6.2.1 Waste plastics 26

6.2.2. Sand 27

6.2.3. Red oxide (ferric oxide) 28

6.3. CONTROL MIX DESIGN 29

6.4. TESTING PROCEDURES 30

6.4.1. Compressive test 30

6.4.2Water absorption test 32

6.4.3. Efflorescence test 32

6.4.4 Fire resistance test 33

6.4.5. Hardness test 33

7 CONCLUSION 34
8 REFERENCE 36

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LIST OF FIGURES

SL NO: TITLE PAGE NO:

1 Green Building Design Concept 7
2 Percentage of energy Consumption by various 10
components of building
3 Energy Consumption by Sector in India 10
4 Energy star rating 11
5 Energy Star window 12
6 Vinyl frames 14
7 Low-E-glass 15
8 Cool roof 17
9 Solar reflectance from cool coating 17
10 Catchment area of rainwater harvesting system 22
11 Conveyance pipes 23
12 First Flush System 23
13 Pressure Sand Filter 24
14 Waste plastic 26
15 River Sand 28
16 Red oxide 29

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LIST OF TABLES

SL NO: TITLE PAGE NO:

1 Energy use pattern in buildings 9

2 Properties of Plastics Polyethylene 27

3 Properties of River Sand 28

4 Comparison of Compressive strength of Plastic sand 31

Bricks possessing various ratios

5 Comparison of compressive strength of plastic sand 31

bricks with its counterpart

6 Comparison of compressive strength of plastic sand 32

and paver

7 Water absorption for various type of bricks 32

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1. INTRODUCTION
Sustainability has become increasingly important in the building industry in recent years.
Energy conservation in the built environment has become one of the most important
topics on both political and scientific agendas. The rising global population, decreasing
fossil-based energy resources, rising emissions of harmful gases have emerged as the
main motivators for energy efficiency in buildings.
A movement has occurred to construct buildings in a more efficient and sustainable
manner by reducing energy use and the costs associated in operating and maintaining the
building. A green building is an outcome of a design philosophy which focuses on
increasing the efficiency of resource use; energy, water, and materials while reducing the
impact on human health and the environment during the building's lifecycle, through
better design, construction, operation, maintenance and removal.

Figure 1: Green Building Design Concept

Source (https://images.google.com)

Green buildings have commonly been regarded as buildings which have more
environmental and health benefits than cost benefits.
However, it is evident that the development of green buildings is absolutely one of the
most effective strategies to tackle the energy problem and decrease the negative impacts
of the built environment on the natural environment. One way of achieving this is by
managing the efficient use of water, energy and other resources in these buildings which
will guarantee to save and reuse those resources. Another way is by decreasing the cost
directly and indirectly in those buildings. Managing these resources and reducing the

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building’s operation and maintenance costs will consequently be reflected directly on the
environment which reduces environmental degradation and pollution.
Compared to ‘conventional’ buildings, green buildings focus on the efficient use of
resources; energy, water, material, and land, and provide better ventilation and lighting
for tenants. The concept of green buildings is within a wider perspective which is
sustainability, and has been developed into many different practices focusing on
environmental concerns.

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2. NEED OF ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDINGS

Demand for energy is increasing fast day by day and is likely to increase in tune with
industrialization/ urbanization .The building sector being one of the largest consumers of
energy, has gained prominence over the past few decades. 45% of total global energy is
used in heating, cooling and lighting of building. 5% energy is used in building
construction. In India energy used for air conditioning of commercial buildings accounts
for 32% of the total energy consumption in the commercial sector in 1995. Energy
consumption patterns can be substantially reduced by energy conserving measures,
particularly during the phase of building design. Space heating load can be reduced by
about 50%, when economically-viable insulating measures are applied to the building
envelopes, i.e. to ceiling and walls.
The need for energy efficient construction is taking momentum by the rising power
consumption in real-estate sector. The buildings being designed and used today are
consuming excessive energy for heating/cooling and lightning. There is about 30-40%
energy saving potential in the building industry which shall not only reduce the load on
the power sector to meet its demand but also help the inhabitants in reducing their energy
bills.
Energy use pattern in buildings:
Lighting 60%
Air conditioning 32%
Other applications 8%
Table 1. Energy use pattern in buildings
(Source: TERI & BEE, Govt. of India presentations)

In conventional Indian buildings, energy consumption is 200 kWh per sq. meter. This
energy consumption can be reduced to 120 kWh per sq. meter by applications of energy
efficient building techniques Saving up to 60% can be achieved (Source: TERI & BEE,
Govt. of India presentations).
Household energy demand is not a direct demand for energy, but rather a derived demand
for the production of energy services – such as lighting, water heating, cooking, space
heating, and air cooling. Households can reduce their energy consumption and related

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emissions by investing in energy efficiency solutions and/or by adopting energy-saving

behaviors.

Figure 2: Percentage of energy Consumption by various components of building

(Source: Journal of Indian Building Congress, 2010)

Figure 3: - Energy Consumption by Sector in India

(Source: DOI:10.15662/IJAREEIE.2015.0411016)

As per the present situation of India energy sector it is very important that we use energy
where we require and optimization is very important. By adopting Energy Efficient
techniques, we can support healthy life and strong economy for today and future as well.
Buildings in India has very great effect as the consumption of building is very high and it
is approximately 39% - 40% in all the form of energy (Source:
DOI:10.15662/IJAREEIE.2015.0411016).

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3. ENERGY STAR WINDOWS

3.1 Introduction

Windows can account for almost one-quarter of household energy use and a numerous
studies have shown that house owners’ number one priority in replacing windows is
energy savings.

Energy Star is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency. It identifies new
homes, buildings, and more than 50 types of products that are energy efficient and offer
the features, quality, and performance that today’s consumers expect. Products that can
earn the Energy Star include windows, heating and cooling equipment, lighting, and
appliances.

Windows provide natural daylight and views, but homeowners often use drapes or blinds
to cover them because of comfort concerns. ENERGY STAR qualified windows and
skylights allow owners to enjoy the light and views while saving money on utility bills
and protecting valuable furnishings and finishes from sun damage. Independently tested
for superior energy performance, ENERGY STAR qualified windows and skylights are
also better for the environment because lowering energy use helps reduce the emissions
of greenhouse gases and air pollutants at the source.

Figure 4. ENERGY STAR Rating

(Source: www.energystar.gov )
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Multiple panes
Low-E coating
Gas fill
Warm edge spacers
Improved
frame materials

Figure 5. Energy Star window

(Source: www.energystar.gov )

The energy performance of all ENERGY STAR qualified windows and skylights is
independently tested and certified according to procedures established by the National
Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). NFRC is a third party, non-profit organization that
sponsors certified rating and labelling programs to help consumers compare the energy
and performance features of windows and skylights.

Windows can account for almost one-quarter of household energy use and a numerous
studies have shown that house owners’ number one priority in replacing windows is
energy savings.

3.2 BENEFITS OF ENERGY STAR QUALIFIED WINDOWS

i. Energy Savings. Energy Star qualified windows and skylights feature advanced
technologies such as invisible glass coatings, vacuum-sealed spaces filled with inert

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gas between the panes, improved framing materials, better weather stripping, and
warm edge spacers, all of which reduce undesirable heat gain and loss.

ii. Improved Comfort. Compared to less efficient windows, Energy Star qualified
windows help keep homes warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This is
because they can block 70 percent or more of the solar heat gain in the summer and
reflect radiant heat indoors during winter.

iii. Protection of Your Home's Interior. Photographs, furniture, flooring, and window
treatments can fade or discolor after repeated exposure to direct sunlight. An Energy
Star qualified window with special (Low-E) coatings can reduce fading. These
coatings can reduce fading by up to 75 percent.

iv. Reduced Condensation. If an inefficient window or window frame gets too cold,
water can condense (or even freeze) on the interior surface and then pool on the sill.
Over time, chronic condensation can damage window sills, cause paint to crack, and
encourage the growth of mold. Advanced frames, glass coatings, spacers, and other
technologies enable Energy Star qualified windows to keep the inner surface of the
glass and frame warmer, reducing the potential for condensation and ensuring a
clearer view on winter mornings.

3.3 THE ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF ENERGY STAR

In 2002, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that Americans, with the
help of the energy star program saved more than 100 billion kWh of electricity.
Prevented more than 20 MMTCEXIX of greenhouse gas emissions, the emissions
equivalent to those from more than 14 million automobiles. Saved more than $7 billion.
Roughly half of these benefits are the result of people using energy star qualifying
products in their homes or at work, and the other half from organizations adopting
superior energy management practices across the commercial and industrial sectors.
3.4 MATERIALS USED

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Quality frame materials;

The material used for the main and sash frames of a window is also very important.  The
most energy efficient materials used commonly today are wood, vinyl and fiberglass. 
Each material has its pros and cons.   Vinyl is the most common of the three due to its
thermal properties, lower maintenance and lower cost for the same performance
ratings.  A vinyl frame or sash that is insulated with foam filled insulation will help make
your window more energy efficient. Most vinyl windows need to be reinforced at
meeting rails as in the middle of a double hung.  Most windows use metal
reinforcements, but some manufacturers use new composite reinforcements for the
highest possible ratings.  Vinyl windows with a fusion welded corner (versus a
conventional corner just screwed together) will not allow cold air to enter through the
window frame corners because the vinyl “fuses” to itself eliminating any potential leaks.  
When a corner is screwed together, the corner is not perfect and will not be as efficient. 
When considering replacement windows, vinyl and wood have very low conducting
qualities making them great choices for frame materials.  On the other hand, metal
aluminium windows have high conducting values making them poor choices for most
applications. 

Figure6. Vinyl frames

Source (https://images.google.com)

Low-E Glass;

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LoE means low emissivity and it’s the term used to describe a special microscopic
coating on the panes of glass.  Recently, LoE was a major advancement in glass
technology.  LoE is actually a layer of sputter coated silver that from the orientation that
it is applied reflects the light.  The glass coating is also called “smart glass” because it
keeps the majority of the UV rays out (non-visible to the human eye) and allows the good
sunlight in (visible light).

Figure 7. Low-E-glass
Source (https://images.google.com)
Gases:
In energy efficient windows, the glass is usually the least efficient component.  But
while purchasing windows our ultimate aim is to get the outside view of home. A special
feature of energy efficient windows is insulating glass which permit optimum energy. 
Each window’s insulating glass unit is comprised of multiple panes of glass, a spacer
system between the panes, LoE coating(s) on the pane(s) of glass, a spacer system to
bond the panes of glass and gas sealed between the panes.  The gas inside of the
insulating glass unit is commonly overlooked but it actually a critical component of an
energy efficient window.  When special “heavy” gases are captured in between the panes,
the rate of energy conduction and convection is minimized.  In simple terms, those gases
which are heavier than air have much larger molecules making everything inside of the
glass move much, much slower than air.  So, heat transfer is basically minimized between
the panes of glass.  Argon gas is the most commonly used gas because it is non-toxic,
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nonreactive, clear and relatively inexpensive.  Krypton glass is also used, but is very
expensive to produce and only typically used for very small air gaps.  Argon gas is a
component that every energy efficient window should have.

4. COOL ROOF

4.1 INTRODUCTION

Energy conservation in the built environment has become one of the most important
topics on both political and scientific agendas. The rising global population, decreasing
fossil-based energy resources, rising emissions of harmful gases have emerged as the
main motivators for energy efficiency in buildings. In addition, cost efficiency, safety and
the need to reduce carbon emissions are fundamental reasons for energy conservation. A
roof can bring lot of heat into the buildings during summers especially when there is high
amount of solar radiation. Due to rapid change in the living standards besides climate
changes and economic development, the energy use in buildings is continuously
ascending and would be many fold in the near future. Promoting energy efficient
technologies as well as energy conservation in buildings is therefore becoming one of the
major concern for the scientific community.
A roof with an ability to reflect and emit the sun's heat back to the sky instead of
transferring it to the buildings is said to be a cool roof. It has high solar reflectance and
thermal emittance values. Cool roof are one of important energy conservation measures
in buildings in countries like India. The impact of using cool roof technologies on the
thermal comfort of buildings, without relying completely on cooling equipment.

4.2 METHODOLOGY
The building gross energy needs represent the anticipated buildings requirements for
heating, lighting, cooling, ventilation, air conditioning and humidification. A cool roof
has been designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof. It
has high solar reflectance and thermal emittance values.
High solar reflectance and thermal emittance of a cool roof combine to keep the roof
surface much cooler than a traditional roof, with peak temperature reductions of 30°F -

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60°F. Achieving this type of drop in roof surface temperature will reduce the overall heat
gain through the roof and reduce a building's annual cooling needs. Studies show cool
roofs can typically reduce summer air conditioning energy use by 10%-20%.

Figure 8.Cool roof

Source (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095263514000399)

Figure 9: Solar reflectance from cool coating

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Source (https://images.google.com)

1) REDUCE ENERGY USE AND ENERGY DEMAND OF A BUILDING

Cool roofs reduce both the energy use and energy demand of building .During the
cooling season, cool roofs reduce heat conduction through the roof during the day and
hence reduce air conditioning use. Cool roofs reduce the peak cooling load and
consequently, the system size required to meet the load. As a major portion of the energy
savings due to cool roofs is realized during peak hours.
2) REDUCTION OF HEAT ISLAND EFFECT AND GLOBAL WARMING
An additional benefit to cool roofs is their potential to reduce heat island effect and
global warming in urban cities. By increasing the solar reflectance of exposed surfaces
(including roofs and pavements) in urban centers, the outflow of short - wave solar
radiation increases. Thus, less solar energy is absorbed leading to lower surface
temperatures and reduced outflow of short -wave of thermal radiation into the
atmosphere.
3) AESTHETICS
One major advantage to cool roofs reported from the perspective of building owner’s
aesthetics. White roofs are aesthetically pleasing as than a more neutral or darker color.
For this reason, cool roof application has typically been to flat or low sloped roofs since
the color of the roof cannot be seen from the ground level.

4.3MATERIALS USED
White thermoplastic membrane roofs are provided (PVC and TPO). They are inherently
reflective, achieving some of the highest reflectance and emittance measurements of
which roofing materials are capable.
Research and practical experience with the degradation of roofing membranes over a
number of years have shown that heat from the sun is one of the most potent factors that
affect durability. High temperatures and large variations, seasonally or daily, at the
roofing level are detrimental to the longevity of roof membranes. Reducing the extremes
of temperature change will reduce the incidence of damage to membrane system.
Covering membranes with materials that reflect ultraviolet and infrared radiation will

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reduce damage caused by UV and heat radiation. White surfaces reflect more than half of
the radiation that reaches them, while black surfaces absorb almost all.

5 ROOF TOP RAIN WATER HARVESTING

5.1 INTRODUCTION

Rainwater harvesting is a technology used to collect, convey and store rain for later use
from relatively clean surface such as a roof, land surface or rock catchment. The water is
generally stored in a rainwater tank or directed to recharge groundwater. Rainwater
infiltration is another aspect of rainwater harvesting playing an important role in storm
water management and in the replenishment of the groundwater levels. Rainwater
harvesting has been practiced for over 4,000 years throughout the world, traditionally in
arid and semi-arid areas, and has provided domestic water and water for livestock and
small irrigation. Today rainwater harvesting has gained much on significance as a
modern, water-saving and simple technology.

The main objective of rooftop rain water harvesting is to make water available for future
use. Capturing and storing rain water for use is particularly important in dryland, hilly,
urban and coastal areas. In alluvial areas energy saving for 1m rise in ground water level
is around 0.40 kilo watt per hour. Artificial recharge to ground water is a process by
which the ground water reservoir is augment at a rate exceeding that under natural
conditions of replenishment. The collected water is stored and pumped in a separate pipe
distribution. This is a very useful method for a developing country like India in reducing
the cost and demand of treated water and also economizing the treatment plants
operation, maintenance and distribution costs.

5.2 CRITERIA FOR SELECTION OF RAINWATER HARVESTING

TECHNOLOGIES

 Type and size of catchment area.

 Local rainfall data and weather patterns.
 Length of the drought period.

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 Alternative water sources.

 Cost of the rainwater harvesting system.
 When rainwater harvesting is mainly considered for irrigation, several factors
should be taken into consideration.
 These include rainfall amount, intensities, and evapo-transpiration rates.
 Crop characteristics such as water requirement and length of growing period.
 Hydrogeology of the site.

5.3 OBJECTIVES

 To meet the increasing demand of water.

 To control wastage of rain water.
 To avoid the flooding of roads.
 To make the unit independent of water consumption.
 To reduce the soil erosion.
 To reduce ground water pollution.

5.4 ADVANTAGES

 Provides self-sufficiency to water supply.

 Reduce the cost of pumping of ground water.
 Provides high quality water, soft and low in minerals.
 Improves the quality of ground water through dilution when recharged to ground
water.
 Reduces soil erosion in urban areas.
 The rooftop rain water harvesting is less expensive.
 Rainwater harvesting systems are simple which can be adopted by individuals.
 Rooftop rain water harvesting systems are easy to construct, operate and maintain.
 In hilly terrains, rain water harvesting is preferred.

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 In saline or coastal areas, rain water provides good quality water and when
recharged to ground water, it reduces salinity and also helps in maintaining
balance between the fresh-saline water interfaces.
 In Islands, due to limited extent of fresh water aquifers, rain water harvesting is the
most preferred sources of water for domestic use.
 In desert, where rain fall is low, rain water harvesting has been providing relief to
people.
 Provides safe water for human consumption after proper treatment.
 Rain water harvesting provides a source of water at the point where it is needed
 It is socially acceptable and environmentally responsible.

5.5DISADVANTAGES

 People may use the store water for washing, sanitation or for industrial purpose. It
will follow into the drains, instead of soaking into ground and will not promote
groundwater replenishment.
 If scientific measures are not adopted for using rainwater for drinking, it may
cause harm to the people health than tap water.
 Rainfall is hard to predict and sometimes little or no rainfall can limit the supply of
rainwater. It is not advisable to depend on rainwater alone for all water needs in
area where there is limited rainfall. Rainwater harvesting is suitable in those areas
that receive plenty of rainfall.
 Rainwater harvesting system require regular maintenance as they may get prone to
rodents, mosquitoes, algae growth, insects and lizards. They can become as
breeding ground for many animals if they are not properly maintained.
 Certain type of roofs may seep chemicals, insects, dirt and animals dropping that
can harm plants if it is used for watering the plants.

5.6 COMPONENTS OF A ROOF TOP RAIN HARVESTING SYSTEM

 Catchment
 Conveyance
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 First Flush Separator

 Filtration
 Storage
 Usage

5.6.1 Catchment

The surface that receives rainfall directly is the catchment of rainwater harvesting system.
It may be terrace, courtyard or paved or unpaved open ground.Theterrace may be flat
RCC/stone roof or sloping roof. Therefore, the catchment is the area, which actually
contributes rainwater to the harvesting system.

Figure 10: Catchment area of rainwater harvesting system

(Source: newtoday.com)

5.6.2 Conveyance (Pipe)

Rainwater from rooftop should be carried through down take water pipes or drains to
storage/harvesting system. Water pipes should be UV resistant (ISI HDPE/PVC pipes) of
required capacity. Water from sloping roofs could be caught through gutters and down

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take pipe. At terrace, mouth of the each drain should have wire mesh to restrict floating
material.

Figure 11: Conveyance pipes

(Source: www.homedepot.com)

5.6.3 First Flush

First flush is a device used to flush off the water received in first shower. The first shower
of rains needs to be flushed-off to avoid contaminating storable/rechargeable water by the
probable contaminants of the atmosphere and the catchment roof. It will also help in
cleaning of slit and other material deposited on roof during dry seasons provisions of first
rain separator should be made at outlet of each drainpipe material.

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Figure 12: first flush system

(Source: jkt.kpkt.gov.my)

5.6.4 Filter

Filters are used for treatment of water to effectively remove turbidity, colour and
microorganisms. After first flushing of rainfall, water should pass through filters or
directly stored in tank and filter before use. A gravel, sand and netlon mesh. Pressure
filter is designed and placed on top of the storage tank or near the tank depending upon
the use.

Pressure Sand Filter

Pressure sand filter consists of a pressure vessel- this could be either vertical or
horizontal-fitted with a set of frontal pipe work and valves, graded silica quartz sand
supported by layers of graded under bed consisting of pebbles and gravels, a top
distributer to distribute the incoming water uniformly throughout the cross section of the
filter, and an under-drain system to collect filtered water. Raw water flows down wards
through the filter bed and as the suspended matter which has usually been treated by
addition of a coagulant like alum- is retained on the sand surface and between the sand
grains immediately below the surface. There is steady rise in the loss of head as the filter
process continue and the flow reduces once the pressure drop across the filter is
excessive.

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Figure 13: Pressure Sand Filter

(Source: www.engineeringcivil.com)
5.6.5Storage

It is used to store the water that is collected from the roof through filter. For small scale
water storage plastic buckets, jerry cans, clay or cement jars, drums may be used. For
larger quantities of water, the system will require a bigger tank with cylindrical or
rectangular or square in shape constructed with Ferro cement or cement rings or plain
cement concrete or reinforced cement concrete or brick or stone etc. The storage tank is
provided with a cover on the top to avoid the contamination of water from external
sources. The storage tank is provided with pipe fixtures at appropriate places to draw the
water to clean the tank and to dispose of extra water.

6. PLASTIC BLOCKS

6.1 INTRODUCTION

The waste plastic will be large in household time. In many countries the compositions of
waste is different, that it is affected by the socioeconomic characters, waste management
programs and consumption patterns, but generally the level of plastic in the waste
composition is one of the largest component of plastic waste is polyethylene which is
followed by polypropylene.

Polyethylene terephthalate and Polystyrene. The large volume of materials required for
construction is potentially a major area for the reuse of waste materials. Recycling the
plastics has advantages since it is widely used and has a long service life, which means
that the waste is being removed from the waste stream for a long period. Because the
amount of clay required to make bricks is large, the environmental benefits are not only

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related to the safe disposal of bulk waste, but also to the reduction of environmental
impacts that arise due to burning of plastics.

Plastics also help to conserve energy at the home Furthermore, the U.S. Department of
Energy estimates that use of plastic foam insulation in homes and buildings each year
will ultimately save close to 60 million barrels of oil versus other kinds of insulation. The
same principles apply in appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioners.

6.2. MATERIALS USED

6.2.1 Waste plastics

By definition the plastics can be made to different shapes when they are heated in closest
environment it exists in the different forms such as cups, furniture’s, basins, plastic bags,
food and drinking containers, and they are become waste material. Accumulation of such
wastes can result into hazardous effects to both human and plant life. Therefore, need for
proper disposal, and, if possible, use of these wastes in their recycled forms, occurs. This
can be done through process of plastic management. Waste management in respect to
plastic can be done by recycling. If they are notrecycled then they will become big
pollutant to the environment as they not decompose easily and also not allow the water to
percolate in to the soil and they are also poisonous. This results were obtained from
official website central institute of plastic engineering and technology, Chennai, India.

Figure 14: Waste plastic

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SI NO EXPERIMENTS RESULTS

1 Density at 23℃ .958

2 Elasticity modulus 9

3 Tensile creep strength 8

4 Bending creep modulus 1

5 Tensile strength at 23 ℃ 2

6 Elongation at break (%) >600

7 Thermal conductivity 0

8 Ignition temperature 3
Table 2. Properties of Plastics Polyethylene

(Source: Indian Journal of Engineering & Materials Sciences Vol. 18, June 2011, pg. 233-23)
Table 2. Properties of Plastics Polyethylene

(Source: Indian Journal of Engineering & Materials Sciences Vol. 18, June 2011, pg. 233-23)

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6.2.2. Sand

Sand is naturally occurring granular material which is composed of mineral particles and
finely divided material. The composition of sand varies depending on the local rock
conditions and sources, but the most constituent of sand in inland continental settings and
non-tropical coastal region is silica dioxide (Sio2) in the form of quartz. The second
commonly used sand is the calcium carbonate, for example aragonite, which has mostly
been created, over the past half billion years, by various forms of life, like coral and
shellfish. Sand are now used in all the construction process.

Figure 15: River Sand

Source (https://images.google.com)

SI.NO EXPERIMENTS RESULTS

1 Figure 15: River Sand

Natural water content 10.7
Source (https://images.google.com)
(%)

2 Specific gravity 2.48

3 Unit weight(g/cc) 1.59

4 Fineness modulus 2.89

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Table 2. Properties of River Sand

(Source:Indian Journal of Engineering & Materials Sciences Vol.18,June2011,pg.233-23)

The properties of the River sand were obtained by various tests conducted in our college
laboratory including Standard proctor test.

6.2.3. Red oxide (ferric oxide)

Iron (III) oxide or ferric oxide is the inorganic compound with the formula Fe2O3. It is
one of the three main oxides of iron, the other two being iron (II) oxide (FeO), which is
rare, and iron (II, III) oxide (Fe3O4), which also occurs naturally as the mineral
magnetite. As the mineral known as hematite, Fe2O3 is the main source of iron for the
steel industry. Fe2O3 is ferromagnetic, dark red, and readily attacked by acids. Iron (III)
oxide is often called rust, and to some extent this label is useful, because rust shares
several properties and has a similar composition. To a chemist, rust is considered an ill-
defined material, described as hydrated ferric oxide.

(III) Oxide which can be used as a pigment in the name of “pigment brown 6”,"pigment
brown 7","pigment red 101”. for example, pigment brown and the pigment red are used
in food and drug administration and also in cosmetics.

Figure 3: Red oxide

(Source: (https://images.google.com)

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The properties of red oxide is to make coloring to the paver blocks. They are red,
odourless and their density is 5.26 g/cm3. Their melting point is also at 2851 degrees
Fahrenheit.

1.3. CONTROL MIX DESIGN

In order to find the plastic soil bricks that they possess high compressive strength with
various mix proportions are made and they are tested using compressive testing
machine. The mix proportion were in the ratio of (1:2,1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6) These are the
ratio which represent the plastic, river sand respectively.

In first step we should collect the waste plastic bags and the polyethylene bags are sorted
out and remaining are disposed safely. Next the collected waste bags are cleaned with
water and dried to remove the water present in it after this the plastics are burned out by
using stones and firewood. The stones are arranged to hold the drum and the firewood is
placed in the gap between the stones and it is ignited. The drum is placed over the above
setup and it is heated to remove the moisture present in it. Then the plastic bags are added
to the drum one by one and the river sand is added to the plastic when it turns into hot
liquid. The sand is added is mixed thoroughly using rod and trowel before it hardens. The
mixture has a very short setting hence mixing process must not consume more time on
the other hand the process should be complete. In case of Paver blocks, Red oxide is
added (less than 10% of the total weight) to impart dark red colour.These mixtures is then
poured in to the brick mould and they are compacted using steel rod and surface is
finished using trowel. Before placing the mixture into the mould, the sides of the mould
are oiled to easy removal of bricks.

6.4. TESTING PROCEDURES

To know the quality of plastic sand bricks and plastic sand paver blocks following tests
can be performed. In these tests some are performed in laboratory and the rest are on
field.

6.4.1. Compressive test

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This is done to know the compressive strength of the bricks and paver blocks. This is also
called crushing strength of bricks and paver blocks. Generally five specimens of bricks
are taken to laboratory for testing and tested one by one. In this test a brick and paver
block specimen is put on crushing machine and applied pressure till it breaks. The
ultimate pressure at which brick is crushed is taken into account. All five brick specimens
are tested one by one and average result is taken as brick's compressive /crushing
strength. The plastic sand bricks and paver blocks of different ratios are tested one by one
and in this the high compression is found and comparison made between the fly ash and
normal bricks.

MIX DESIGNATION PLASTIC COMPRESSIVE

SAND RATIO STRENGTH (N/mm^2)

M1 1:2 4.65

M2 1:3 4.78

M3 1:4 5.12

M4 1:5 4.92

M5 1:6 3.17

Table 3.Comparison of Compressive strength of Plastic sand Bricks possessing various

ratios

(Source: Indian Journal of Engineering & Materials Sciences Vol. 18, June 2011, pg.
233-23)

SI.NO TYPE OF PAVER COMPRESSIVE

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BLOCK STRENGTH(N/mm2)

1 Plastic sand 8.19

2 Ordinary 7.17

Table 4.Comparison of compressive strength of plastic sand and paver

(Source: Indian Journal of Engineering & Materials Sciences Vol. 18, June 2011, pg.
233-23)

SI.NO TYPE OF BRICK COMPRESSIVE

STRENGTH (N/mm^2)

1 Fly ash 4.19

2 Burnt clay 3.15

3 Plastic brick 5.12

Table 5.Comparison of compressive strength of plastic sand bricks with its counterpart

(Source: Indian Journal of Engineering & Materials Sciences Vol. 18, June 2011, pg.
233-23)

6.4.2Water absorption test

In this the bricks first weighted in dry condition and they are immersed in water for 24
hours. After that they are taken out from water and they are wipe out with cloth. Then the
difference between the dry and wet bricks percentage are calculated.

SI.NO TYPE OF PAVER WATER ABSORPTION

BLOCK

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1 Plastic sand 1.082

2 Ordinary 3.709

Table 7.Water absorption for various types of paver blocks

(Source: Indian Journal of Engineering & Materials Sciences Vol. 18, June 2011, pg.
233-23)

6.4.3. Efflorescence test

The presence of alkalis in bricks is harmful and they form a grey or white layer on brick
surface by absorbing moisture. To find out the presence of alkalis in bricks this test is
performed. In this test a brick is immersed in fresh water for 24 hours and then it's taken
out from water and allowed to dry in shade. The plastic sand brick has low alkali content
and so a little white patch is formed over the surface

6.4.4 Fire resistance test

The Plastic is highly susceptible to fire but in case of Plastic sand bricks/Paver blocks the
presence of sand imparts insulation. There is no change in the structural properties of
block of bricks up to 180oC above which visible cracks are seen and the blocks/bricks
deteriorate with increase in temperature.

6.4.5. Hardness test

In this test a scratch is made on brick surface with steel rod (any hard material can be
used) which was difficult to imply the bricks or blocks were hard. This shows the brick
possess high quality.

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CONCLUSION
Energy Star certified models can save you an average of 8% on your energy bills as
compared to standard window. And windows that qualify for the Energy Star most
efficient designation are up to 40% more efficient than a standard window. Replacing old
windows lowers household energy bills by an average of 12% national wide. Lower
energy consumption also reduces greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and
homes.
The use of cool roof can bring numerous benefits in terms of energy efficiency,
environmental comfort and architectural quality of buildings. If all urban, flat roof in
warm climates were whitened, the resulting 10% increases in global reflectivity would
offset the warming effect of 24 Giga Tons of greenhouse gas emissions, or equivalent to
taking 300 million cars off the road for 20 years. This is because a 93- square- m (1000
sq. ft.) white roof will offset 10 tons of carbon-dioxide over its 20 years lifetime.
Rainwater harvesting is one of the most promising alternatives for supplying water in the
face of increasing water scarcity and escalating demand. The pressure on water supplies,
increased environmental impact from large projects and deteriorating water quality,
constrain the ability to meet the demand for freshwater from traditional sources.
Rainwater harvesting presents an opportunity for the augmentation of water supplies
allowing at the same time for self- reliance and sustainability. If we undertake rainwater
harvesting in every house, we can replenish the groundwater on a massive scale. For each
square metre of area, we can collect about 1,000 litres of water per year. A house of 200

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square metres area can conserve 2 lakh litres of water every year. The normal
consumption of household is about 750 litres per day as per WHO norms. Which means
we can get more than what is needed for a year through rainwater harvesting.

The Plastic sand bricks possess more advantages which include Cost efficiency, Removal
of waste products thus abolishing the land requirement problem for dumping plastic,
Reduction in the emission of greenhouse gases by the conversion of flue gases into
synthetic oil etc. This method is suitable for the countries which has the difficult to
dispose /recycle the plastic waste. The natural resources consumed for the manufacturing
of Plastic sand bricks and Paver blocks are very much less when compared to its
counterparts. The manufacturing cost could be reduced further by replacing the river sand
with fly ash/quarry dust or other waste products. Owing to the numerous advantages
further research would improve the quality and durability of plastic sand bricks and paver
blocks.

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REFERENCE
1. J. Apte, D. Arasteh and P.E. Yu Joe Huang, "Future Advanced Windows for
Zero-Energy Homes", ASHRAE Transactions, Volume 109, Part 2, 2003, pp.
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2. K. V. Wong and R. Chan, "Smart Glass and its potential in energy savings",
Journal of Energy Resources Technology, Volume 136, Issue 1, 2013.
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5. ENDNOTES 1 Arasteh , Dariush ; Selkowitz, Steve; Apte, Josh; and Marc
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Fired Clay Bricks”
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10. Journal of Engineering Research And Studies (JERS), Vol.III, Issue II, pg 01-05
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1. V.Kasselouri-Rigopoulou, S. Gavela, S. Kolias“UseOf Polymeric Wastes in The
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