DEVELOPMENT OF SUSTAINABLE BRICKS UTILIZING INDUSTRIAL WASTE

Abstract

The viability of clay bricks for construction applications is significantly influenced by their compressive strength and water absorption characteristics. This study evaluated the impact of various additives—including corncob ash (CCA), wheat husk ash (WHA), ceramic powder (CP), bagasse ash (BA), and rice husk ash (RHA)—on the mechanical and durability properties of clay bricks. The results indicated that although all bio-based ashes (CCA, WHA, BA, and RHA) contain silica, their effects on compressive strength vary due to differences in particle size, chemical composition, and interactions with the clay matrix. CCA exhibited a decreasing strength trend with increasing content, dropping from 14.27 MPa at 1.5% to 9.91 MPa at 12%, mainly due to increased porosity. WHA showed an initial increase in strength but declined at higher percentages, following a similar trend. In contrast, CP enhanced compressive strength at all levels, peaking at 15.27 MPa at 12%, attributed to its finer texture and ability to densify the brick matrix. BA and RHA followed a trend similar to that of CCA and WHA, in which strength increased slightly at lower percentages but decreased above 6%, primarily due to increased void formation. Water absorption analysis revealed that bio-based ashes increased porosity and water uptake, with CCA exhibiting the highest water absorption of 18.20% at 12%. WHA and BA exhibited similar patterns, resulting in increased permeability. Conversely, CP significantly reduced water absorption across all percentages, reaching a minimum of 8.13% at 1.5%, due to its ability to enhance particle packing and reduce voids. Overall, CP proved to be the most effective additive for improving strength and water resistance, while excessive amounts of bio-based ashes compromised the structural integrity of bricks. These findings provide insights into optimizing additive proportions for sustainable clay brick production while balancing mechanical performance and durability.