Smart tiles made from recycled plastic waste

Eco-friendly Innovation : Redefining Waste Management

Recycling is one of the most important actions currently available to reduce these impacts and represents one of the most dynamic areas in the plastics industry today. CSIR-National Physical laboratory (CSIR-NPL) has developed a novel technology to utilize waste plastic scrap for designing materials for utilization of tiles in the building of structures and rooms for societal benefits.

The Smart Tiles developed in CSIR-NPL, repurposes plastic waste to create high-performance building materials. Addressing the plastic waste issue in India, these tiles recycle low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), and multi-layer plastics (MLP) into eco-friendly tiles for walls, floors, and pavements. They offer a sustainable, circular solution to plastic disposal challenges, transforming non-biodegradable plastics into durable products with minimal environmental impact. These smart tiles further support sustainable urban infrastructure by helping to reduce landfill dependency and pollution.

High performance, low impact: advanced tiles for a better planet

Utilization of waste plastic bags and waste plastic scrap for designing of tiles which can be used in building of structures, paver tiles, interlock tiles, roof tiles and rooms for general public for societal benefits.

  • Material Composition: Made from a blend of LDPE, HDPE, PP, and MLP plastics, mixed with red mud (forming WP RM composites), these tiles are compression-molded into composite materials that demonstrate enhanced strength and stability.
  • Environmental and Durability Features:
    • ASTM Standard Compliance: Tiles are tested under ASTM standards for skid resistance, suitable for both dry and wet surfaces, ensuring safety in public spaces.
    • High-Performance Attributes: These tiles feature superior mechanical strength, flame retardancy, UV protection, and antistatic properties, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications.
    • Eco-Friendly Design: Offering flame resistance and water permeability, these tiles are safer and more sustainable than traditional plastic products.

Transform Plastic, Create Value

From floors to roads: sustainable solution across sectors

The versatility of these tiles makes them applicable across various sectors. They are ideal for public infrastructure projects, residential spaces, and commercial developments, providing eco-friendly solutions for:

  • Public Infrastructure: Smart tiles are well-suited for paving footpaths, building facades, public toilets, and washrooms. Their strength and slip resistance make them perfect for high-traffic areas, while their eco-friendly composition contributes to reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Private Sector Usage: Private players in construction and real estate can incorporate smart tiles for sustainable flooring, wall tiling, and exterior designs in buildings. These tiles offer a green alternative for projects aiming to achieve environmental certification and sustainability goals.
  • Rural and Urban Development: Supporting urban and rural development schemes, these tiles contribute to cleaner surroundings by utilizing waste plastic, aligning with India’s Swachh Bharat Mission and related initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable infrastructure.
  • Societal Benefit: With their cost-effectiveness and durability, smart tiles can be utilized for low-cost housing, schools, and community centers, promoting inclusive and sustainable infrastructure for the general public.

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"By converting waste plastic into durable tiles for paving roads, this solution addresses plastic pollution while promoting sustainable infrastructure development. It exemplifies circular economy principles by turning waste into valuable resources."


Dr. Rajiv Kumar Singh Principal Scientist, CSIR-NPL

"Repurposing plastic waste into eco-friendly tiles is a significant step toward sustainable urban infrastructure. This innovation not only reduces landfill waste but also supports greener, smarter cities by integrating waste management with development goals."


Ms. Shipra Misra MD & CEO, DRIIV