Developed by former construction worker Dustin Bowers, PLAEX (PL-astic, A-ggregate and EX-trude) is a new construction block made of 90% recycled plastics. The bricks are manufactured by cleaning and shredding waste plastic (PETE, LDPE, PP, and HDPE, no PVC or PS) before extruding it into a paste and adding UV and flame inhibitors and the desired colorants. The result? Construction blocks that are 35% lighter than cinderblocks and lock together without mortar.
Dustin says he came up with the idea for PLAEX after realizing how much waste there was in the construction industry, and deciding to do something about it. He estimates a home could be built as quickly as 11 to 12 days with the product, with little to no need for heavy machinery. The bricks are currently available for use in the construction of storage, walls, and landscaping but are awaiting certification for the construction of homes.
Do I want to build myself a new home entirely out of PLAEX? Yes. Will it wind up in pieces on the floor like every other LEGO build I’ve attempted? More than likely. I wonder how PLAEX would hold up compared to the three little pigs’ houses. Is this above the third little pig’s brick house in quality? Would it stand up to TWO big bad wolfs huffing and puffing simultaneously? I need answers.
[via NewsAtlas]
With over 17 years of writing experience, Jonathan has had a passion for all things tech-related, ever since watching Inspector Gadget as a child. He's disassembled countless appliances and managed to put a few back together, and one still works. When not writing, he can often be found playing video games or accidentally hurting himself in the garage.