Recycled plastic works perfectly to produce materials called nanocomposites. The mixing achieved with this method allows the use of conventional and commercial plastics processing equipment on the market.

The sleepers of the Metro Transportation System tracks, made with these new materials, are more resistant and ecological, and have the same functionality as the wooden ones, at a lower cost and without cutting down trees.

The scientific principle of this technology is based on the application of nanoparticles (in small quantities, on the order of 0.5 to 5% by weight) in polymer processing technology. With respect to the polymer without particles, this process results in the improvement of the mechanical, thermal and rheological properties of the products.

The challenge now is to systematically replace the sleepers with those made from recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) nanocomposites and clay nanoparticles.

It is highlighted that the applicable regulations on the reuse of plastics, indicates that recycled plastics cannot be used for the production of drainage pipes, in this case only virgin plastics. However, the properties of recycled plastics are sufficient to be used in this process.