Review of Related Literature

Glass Bottles

Glass, as stated by Rajaramakrishna et al. (2019), is an amorphous solid with a glass

transition temperature. It exhibits bypassed crystallization by stopping the kinetics below the

supercooled liquid region. Although the precise date when glasses were first used or created is

unknown, it is widely accepted that they were initially made or utilized by a natural process

(Obsidian), which involved the eruption of molten magma from the earth's interior and

subsequent cooling to create the glass. And due to its transparency and ability to be molded into

any shape, glass is particularly suitable for aesthetic displays. Teklemariam et al. (2019)

mentioned that glass is frequently used in the food industry and is usually regarded as one of

the safest and most reliable inert packaging materials. And because of its versatility, it can be

used for a variety of purposes, from commonplace windows, screens, or bottles to more

specialized ones like glass for sealing purposes. Similar procedures are used to prepare the

majority of industrially produced glasses, including the melting of the raw ingredients,

homogenizing the melt, conditioning, shaping, and cooling. (Hubert, 2019)

To begin with, the advantages of using glass bottles include safety, sustainability, and

image. Glass is produced by blending sand, sodium carbonate, limestone, and reused glass,

which is also called cullet, using all-natural and eco-friendly ingredients. While glass bottles

have a long history, the shift from plastic containers to glass has gained popularity in recent

times due to increased consumer awareness of eco-friendly packaging and businesses

reevaluating the benefits of glass. (Hunter Howard, 2018; FEVE, 2023). They are superior to

other materials in terms of sustainability, quality, and health in several ways. They retain their

qualities and worth when recycled into new glass goods. We can gain from glass bottle use and

recycling while preserving the environment (AcoRecycling & Recycling, 2023). As time passes

by, glass has evolved into a choice for sustainable construction. Due to its transparency, glass
is extremely attractive and can be molded into any shape for artistic display (Rajaramakrishna &

Kaewkhao, 2019). Recycled waste glass is seen as a sustainable way of managing waste and

preventing further environmental degradation (Ogundairo et al., 2019). One of the benefits of

glass is that it retains its purity and experiences no degradation in quality when subjected to the

recycling process, as long as the amount of new glass used for recycling remains constant

(Garcia et al., 2020).

Glass bottles can also have disadvantages. The production and delivery of glass bottles

are more expensive since they are heavier than plastic bottles, they are also fragile (Whale,

2021). Not all glass waste can be recycled as it can be due to its variation, quality, or cost when

it is manufactured (Huseien et al., 2020). This means that there are glass waste that does not

qualify to be recycled. As we know, glass can be a hazardous material, meaning it can bring

harm to us and our environment. Glass bottles are often discarded after being reused only once

(Marie, 2020). They are disposed of even if they can be reused more than once. Aside from

harm to our environment, it can also bring harm to us, the people who use glass bottles. Glass

bottles can be dangerous to us because it is rigid and when broken, their broken pieces are

enough to give us the risk of having an injury (Pathak, 2021). Pathak (2021) also stated that

manufacturing glass can be expensive because of its raw materials needed and its required

high temperature to manufacture it. Manufacturing glass can also be harmful to our environment

as raw materials are melted and emit pollutants when creating a glass product. The reason for

that is mining for silica, which can cause great damage to our environment (Lee, 2023). Among

the major causes of municipal solid waste (MSW), waste glass (WG) is one of the major

(Mallum et al., 2022). A substance that has a direct link to human civilization. According to Del

Rio et al. (2022), 80% of all glass manufacturing contributes to the more than 60 million tons of

carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted yearly by the container and flat glass industries. Energy

conservation, reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, and trash disposal from the production
of various products continue to be significant concerns in urban areas around the world. Only a

small percentage of the million tons of glass bottle waste produced each year get recycled

(Huseien et al., 2020). Increasing glass waste poses significant hurdles for waste management

to prevent potential environmental issues that could arise if it were to be dumped in landfills.

Glass waste is theoretically entirely recyclable, however the remelting process is impracticable if

it is contaminated, contains impurities, is shattered, or has mixed colors (Bisikirskė et al., 2019).

There is a rising environmental concern as a result of the limited recycling methods currently

used for crushed waste glass (Xin et al., 2021).

According to College, 2022, glass is completely recyclable, efficient in terms of energy

use, and can be put back on shop shelves in just 30 days, saving millions of pounds of garbage

from landfills. Despite the potential advantages, recycling only accounts for around a third of

glass containers in the US. By decreasing the requirement for raw materials like sand, sodium

carbonate, and limestone, glass recycling protects natural resources. Additionally, employing

cullet, a product that melts at a lower temperature and uses 40% less energy than creating new

glass from scratch, results in energy savings. Glass containers, like fencing or refilled water

bottles, have a low chemical interaction rate, making them suitable for reuse. Glass may be

recycled easily since it is accepted by the majority of municipal recycling facilities and curbside

recycling programs. Most glass bottles are eligible for cash returns in several American

jurisdictions (West, 2018). By tracking glass waste, assembling final goods, and figuring out

advantages, anyone may develop a recycling project. Gloves and adult supervision are

necessary when shattering glasses or gathering cullets. Resources come in the form of

information, case studies, and simple steps. By doing these actions, people may use less glass

and support a sustainable future (WWF, 2020). Both of the public and private sector benefit

from cheaper rates and job creation in the recycling industry. The effort includes new bottle-bill

legislation, expanded commercial recycling programs and clean collection choices. Investments
in collection, separation, and processing are needed to reduce landfill waste (Koeller et al.,

2021). The use of glass bottles to store liquids has a long and illustrious history. They are

superior to other materials in terms of sustainability, quality, and health in several ways. They

retain their qualities and worth when recycled into new glass goods. We can gain from glass

bottle use and recycling while preserving the environment (AcoRecycling & Recycling, 2023).

Resin Tiles

According to Gould (2023) Resin tiles look fantastic and are water-resistant, making

them a great way to combine the styles you want. They are also great for DIYers because you

may make your own tile designs. One negative of resin tile is its propensity to chip and fade

over time, especially when exposed to sunlight. Resin flooring works well as accent pieces and

backsplashes and is advised for wet places like bathrooms and mudrooms. Additionally, stated

by Umar et al. (2023) Epoxide groups are a component of the class of reactive pre-polymers

and polymers known as epoxy resins. Epoxy resin' two major components are epichlorohydrin

and different types of bisphenol. Furthermore, According to CFS Concrete Flooring (2022)

epoxy resin is poured onto a concrete surface and allowed to harden, leaving a long-lasting

coating behind. Despite the fact that it may be used in residential locations as well, because of

its high cost, durability, and simplicity of cleaning, it performs best in commercial and industrial

settings. Moreover, according to Capricho & Fox (2019), in organic chemistry, oxiranes are

sometimes referred to as epoxides, organic compounds in which one oxygen atom joins two

adjacent carbon atoms to form a three-membered ring. This three-membered ring is significantly

stretched in oxiranes and readily opens with little effort. Although an acid significantly speeds up

the process, rings can open in basic, neutral, or acid environments. In addition, according to

Sukanto et al. (2021), a specific class of thermoset polymer that is useful in manufacturing is

epoxy resin. For instance, they generate products with less pressure and exhibit minimal cure
shrinkage and residual tension. They can be used in a wide temperature range while adjusting

the number of cross-links using the right curing agent.

According to the study conducted by Lee et al. (2022) resin tiles offer a rejuvenating

impact by infiltrating and healing cracks, making them especially advantageous in constructions

employing dry cement mortar as the adhesive for the tiles. Furthermore, they mitigate adhesion

wear resulting from shear stress by diminishing moisture evaporation and drying shrinkage

within the mortar, consequently decreasing tile shrinkage. Specifically, epoxy resin is anticipated

to enhance the adhesion of large-sized tiles, which are currently in high demand due to their

susceptibility to increase shear stress caused by shrinkage. Additionally, Greppi & Fabbri (2020)

elucidated that the utilization of epoxy resin not only ensures commendable optical properties

but also bestows supplementary advantages, encompassing straightforward installation as well

as convenient cleaning and maintenance procedures. Moreover, resin tiles also boast

exceptional durability, extended lifespan, diverse design flexibility, aesthetic appeal, safety

enhancements through anti-slip coatings, and a hygienic, easily maintained surface. Despite

potentially higher initial costs, these merits render it a judicious and cost-effective long-term

investment suitable for diverse applications (Brown, 2020). On the other hand, Deix and Tutic

(2023) emphasizes that Resin tiles are commonly utilized in industrial settings, garages, and

parking structures, serving the dual purpose of safeguarding the underlying reinforced concrete

structure and providing a well-suited flooring solution for their intended functions. Additionally,

they offer advantages such as a wide array of color design options, exceptional resistance to

abrasion, protection against road salt chloride, the ability to bridge cracks, resistance to liquid

permeation, and chemical resilience against oil and fuel, ultimately enhancing their

impermeability to carbon dioxide (CO2) penetration. As for Varma and Sini (2018), resins

provide versatile benefits in transportation, electrical appliances, and construction. They offer

lightweight durability for vehicles, effective electrical insulation for appliances, and increased
strength and longevity for building structures. Their adaptability enhances efficiency and product

durability in these industries.

Despite the recent popularity and overall appeal of resin tiles, it is equally crucial to be

aware of the drawbacks before use. Firstly, epoxy floors are slippery and pose a safety hazard

for children and the elderly (Irish, 2021). Secondly, installing resin flooring should be done

precisely as faulty installation could compromise the damage resistance and longevity of the

resin (Alexander, 2022). Problems may also arise from the adhesive itself. Although epoxy resin

is a versatile and robust material, it is susceptible to warping or rippling when it is applied to

uneven surfaces or exposed to ultraviolet light for an extended period of time (Verboom, 2020).

Additionally, cracks and scratches can appear on the hardened resin over time and frequent

use. The probability of these increases if little to no maintenance is done on the resin (Resin

flooring advantages and disadvantages, 2020). According to Besley (2023), resins have

adjustable properties such as the speed of curing time, flexibility, strength, temperature

resistance, etc. However, increasing one property comes at the expense of other properties. For

instance, a resin that is made to be highly flexible will have lower strength and vise-versa.

On the other hand, resin as a top coating for tiles encountered some issues that could

impact the concept of the pleasing environment of the interior, such as discoloration (yellowish

or brownish), damage, cracks, and loss of gloss due to UV radiation and exposure to high

temperatures of 150° - 300° Fahrenheit (Felix, 2021). Additionally, AISLAC (2021) stated that

challenges may also arise, possibly leading to environmental impact. Resin flooring consists of

fumes that emit an unpleasant smell when drying, which can be hazardous when exposed in the

production of tiles, but this depends on the resin used. However, Greenburg (2023) stated that,

in the hardening process, due to the chemical reaction and high heat temperature of epoxy

resin, the smell it releases could impact the respiratory system. The chemical contained in the

epoxy resin has side effects when exposed to touching or closely inhaling. Furthermore, the
curing time of resin tiles depends on what type of resin and the heat source or the temperature it

needs, but the drying process could take more time, ranging from 24 to 74 hours, to achieve

high compressive strength and durability of the tiles (Pacanowsky, 2023).

To address the aforementioned issues, it is necessary to seek solutions from

professionals and exercise caution when working with resin tiles. As previously stated, there are

various factors causing imperfections to occur in the epoxy resin. These factors include

application on uneven surfaces, prolonged UV light exposure, deterioration over time, and

degree of usage. Robex Contracting Ltd (2020) asserted that in order to avoid ripples or

deformation, the surface where the epoxy will be poured should be smooth, without any cracks,

unevenness, or flaws. They also affirmed that the natural slipperiness of epoxy flooring can be

combated by opting for an epoxy aggregate, a mixture of epoxy resin and rock pebbles, quartz,

or glass chips. Alternatively, Concrete Flooring Solutions Ltd (2022) suggested the placement of

a skid-resistant layer to eliminate slipperiness. To prevent the resin from reacting to UV light,

they also emphasized the necessity of applying a protective layer of ultraviolet sealant. KcrTOy

(2023) highlights the importance of wearing protective body clothing and ensuring proper

ventilation in the work area to avoid health complications while working with epoxy. Flood (2022)

adds the importance of wearing a respirator, gloves, and not consuming any food or beverages

when working with the toxic substance. Lastly, it is essential to properly dispose of the waste

one the project is finished. Epoxy, like other hazardous chemicals, should never be poured

down the drain or flushed down the toilet. Instead, it should be solidified before it can be safely

thrown away. Also, empty resin containers should be sealed tightly before disposal (Swift,

2023).

Interior Design

Interior design, defined by Alamry (2022), is the aspect to achieve a more aesthetically

pleasing and functional environment for its occupants with art and science of enhancing the
interior of a space. It involves the creative and technical aspects of designing spaces,

considering various elements such as color, lighting, furniture, layout, and decor (Thoring et al.,

2018). Interior designers work to create spaces that reflect the client's needs, preferences, and

the purpose of the space while adhering to design principles and considering sustainability and

environmental impact (Mohsen & Matarneh, 2023). Furthermore, interior design takes on a

sustainable approach by repurposing glass bottles and utilizing resin to create decorative tiles

(Namini, 2022). This sustainable approach involves transforming waste materials into functional

and aesthetically pleasing elements for interior design, aligning with the principles of

environmental consciousness and resource efficiency (Salvioni & Almici, 2020).

This impacts how interior spaces of homes have creative decorative styles with the

inspiration of every country home style, a way of being sustainable and aesthetically pleasing

that corresponds to the preferences of the interior style, Chen et al. (2023). Llale (2022) asserts

that a pleasing interior design is critical in terms of being visually appealing and comfortable,

which affects human comfort in staying indoors and could also affect human well-being and

improve the way of life. In the survey, Walden (2018) conducted, mostly about 80% to 90% of

humans globally spend their time indoors. Due to this, it impacts a better interior design in

humans' emotional state that influences the positive and negative mood of a person, Joseph

(2023). Moreover, not only achieving comfortable and pleasing surroundings, but the interior

design is also sustainable to the environment by choosing raw materials, specifically eco-

friendly materials, that create enhanced sustainability towards the future, Alfuraty (2020).

However, this approach is not without its disadvantages. One major concern is the

complexity and skill required to effectively upcycle glass bottles into decorative resin tiles

(Shanker et al., 2022). The process involves specialized knowledge of working with both glass

and resin, which may pose a learning curve or a barrier for individuals without the necessary

expertise (Knippers et al., 2021). Additionally, the resources and equipment needed for this
upcycling process could be costly, making it potentially less accessible for some designers or

homeowners (Bridgens et al., 2018). Moreover, ensuring the durability and safety of the

upcycled materials may require thorough testing and quality control measures, further adding to

the complexity and potential costs associated with this sustainable approach in interior design

(Roy et al., 2021). Despite these challenges, the environmental benefits and unique aesthetic

outcomes of upcycling glass bottles into decorative resin tiles present a compelling case for

incorporating such practices in sustainable interior design (Hinton et al., 2022).

Interior design grown as a gratifying profession until the issues and obstacles

encountered by Interior designers. In particular, working with difficult clientele (Bako, 2021) or

managing their expectations (2020 Spaces, 2022) have been a challenge for most Interior

Designers. Some clients may have aspirations or creative visions that exceed reality. Clients

can also be controlling, indecisive, demanding, unreasonable, unwilling to compromise, and

difficult to communicate with. They may not give precise feedback to the designer. Affordability,

another issue Interior Designers face because the majority of consumers find professional

services difficult to afford (Joseph, 2023). Additionally, Smith (2022) stated Interior designers

are struggling to create designs that are sustainable and environment favorable. A few of the

concerns are adopting sustainable materials, reducing energy consumption, expensive, and

improving indoor quality. Over and above that, remaining up-to-date on trends and technologies

(Parker, 2023), time evolves things and the interior design industry is no different. Interior

Designers must provide the newest and most innovative solutions to their clients. This also

allows them to improve their skills, work efficiently and to provide sustainable designs to their

clients.

As the aforementioned has addressed, here are ways to improve in Interior Design.

Fundamentally, an Interior Designer should be professional in their profession, even if the client

is hard to deal well, remain respectful. The Interior Designer should be responsive,

communicative, flexible and willing to compromise to have a will to listen to their feedback and
find solution that work for the Interior Designer and clients (Erickson, 2022). Moreover, set a

realistic expectation with the clients especially to communicate about the budget to avoid

conflict in the process (Mulvey, 2021) Recycle or reuse materials and create an art that one can

use as furniture or decor. Thrift for unique furniture or decor and repair and upgrade to the

client's taste (Valeris & Gauteri, 2023). Additionally, in order for interior designers to be updated

with the interior design trends they must use social media, read books and articles, and attend

online classes and workshops (Brammer, 2019). Be apprehensive of the client’s budget and still

can create a stylish and creative space (Craft, 2020).