BRIN Develops Plastic Waste-Based Eco Hex Brick for Coastal Erosion Mitigation and Rehabilitation
The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), through its Research Center for Biomass and Bioproducts (PRBB), has developed Eco Hex Brick, a construction material made from plastic waste and designed as as semi-permeable wave barrier to mitigate coastal erosion while supporting coastal ecosystem rehabilitation. The material utilizes low-value plastic waste, such as multilayer and mixed plastics, which is shredded, melted, mixed with fine sand aggregate, and then molded into hexagonal interlocking bricks. Unlike conventional massive coastal protection structures, Eco Hex Brick is designated to dissipate wave energy without completely obstructing water movement, thereby allowing sendiment to accumulate behind the structure and creating a suitable medium for mangrove growth. Laboratory testing has shown that certain Eco Hex Brick formulations achieve compressive strength approaching that of K-300 grade concrete, while also demonstrating good resistance to degradation and ultraviolet (UV) exposure in coastal environments.
Eco Hex Brick has been implemented through a pilot project in Sayung District, Demak Regency, one of the areas severely affected by coastal erosion, through collaboration between BRIN, the Bakau Manfaat Foundation, PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero), local government aothorities, and local communities. Initial monitoring has shown sediment accumulation behind the structure within a relatively short period, as well as the emergence of marine organisms on the surface of the Eco Hex Bricks. These findings indicate its potential not only to function as a wave-energy barrier but also to support coastal ecological rehabilitiation. By addressing two environmental challenges, plastic waste and coastal erosion, through a single circular economy-based technological approach, this innovation also highlights the importance of collaboration among research institutions, government, the private sector, and local communities in developing sustainable coastal protection solutions.
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