Energy Harvesting in Plastic Aggregate Paver Blocks

Rapid urbanization, increasing energy demand, and accumulation of plastic waste have created a need for sustainable infrastructure solutions that promote resource conservation and renewable energy generation. This book investigates the development and performance of concrete paver blocks incorporating waste plastic aggregates and embedded piezoelectric sensors for energy harvesting applications. Natural coarse aggregates were partially replaced with processed waste plastic aggregates to produce environmentally friendly paver blocks, while piezoelectric sensors were integrated within the blocks to convert mechanical energy from pedestrian and vehicular loads into electrical energy. Results indicated that a 10% replacement of natural aggregates with waste plastic aggregates provided optimum mechanical performance, while the embedded piezoelectric sensors successfully generated electrical energy suitable for low-power applications such as LED lighting. The proposed system offers a sustainable approach to waste management, renewable energy generation, and smart infrastructure development, contributing to environmentally responsible and energy-efficient urban transportation facilities.