Recycling of Wastes into Construction Materials

Abstract

Construction activity generates a large amount of waste, causing environmental and economic impacts due to waste elimination without recycling or reusing these materials. In this research, the incorporation of wastes from different sectors (biomass, power plants, construction and demolition process) in concrete with good fire resistance is studied. The chemical composition and grading curve of these wastes are determined. Fire resistance blocks are manufactured with a high percentage of waste in their composition. The new materials are then subjected to several tests in order to analyse their fire resistance, mechanical properties, thermal conductivity, leaching, and radioactivity. A new facade solution is developed by changing traditional materials for some of the new recycled materials, and their technical features are compared. All four wastes studied decreased the density and mechanical strength of a 28-day-old block, and a higher water ratio is needed for block preparation. On the other hand, the blocks' fire resistance increased, decreasing their thermal conductivity. The properties of the new materials validate their possible usage for nonstructural applications such as blocks or prefabricated concrete panels for facades and inside partitioning, showing good mechanical and thermal performance. Their use does not represent a significant risk to the environment.