A REVIEW ON MECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF NORMAL CONCRETE PARTIALLY REPLACED WITH RECYCLEDCERAMICS AGGREGATES

Abstract

The quantities of ceramic wastes in our nation have been on the increase significantly (approx. 45.9 tonnesannually in Nairobi) without consideration for potential reuse or recycling, increasing the risk to public health dueto the scarcity of land area. This growing problem can be alleviated if new disposal options other than landfill canbe found. In addition, increased construction activity and continuous dependence on conventional materials ofconcrete are also leading to scarcity of these materials resulting to increased construction cost. This study aims atreviewing the past research work on the use of ceramic waste aggregate as possible partial substitute forconventional coarse aggregate in concrete. From the review, an optimum mechanical strength of recycledceramics in concrete was identified. Recycled ceramics originates mostly from broken or leftover tiles, sanitary andkitchenware. Two different ceramics were considered as partial substitute for coarse aggregate in concrete underthis review, i.e. crushed clay bricks and tiles. The replacement proportions varied from 0%, 17%, 33%, 50%, and67% by weight for natural aggregates, while other components kept constant. A detailed analysis of the results ofprevious work is presented for concrete design mixes. Final tests results of this work are of importance in assessingthe mechanical properties determined through splitting tensile tests, flexural tests, compressive tests and bondstrength development tests at 7, 14, and 28 days. Tests results showed positive response for mechanical propertiesof the new concrete. The review indicates that considerable knowledge and expertise has been accumulated onthe use of waste ceramic products as partial occupant of natural aggregates in concrete technology. This thereforeprovides better and efficient recycling and utilization of waste ceramics in our environment.