As the construction industry faces increasing pressure to innovate sustainably, a recent study led by Filali Saloua from Mohammed Premier University reveals promising advancements in the use of recycled materials in concrete. Published in ‘Građevinski Materijali i Konstrukcije’—translated to ‘Construction Materials and Structures’—this research explores how incorporating fly ash and brick powder as partial substitutes for sand can significantly enhance the mechanical properties of concrete.
The study addresses a pressing issue: the environmental impact of traditional concrete production, which heavily relies on natural resources. “By integrating recycled materials like fly ash and brick powder, we can not only meet the growing demand for concrete but also do so in a way that is more environmentally friendly,” says Saloua. This innovative approach not only conserves resources but also promises to lower production costs, a crucial factor in today’s competitive construction market.
The research rigorously tested various concrete mixtures, substituting 10% of natural sand with brick powder and gradually replacing the remaining sand with fly ash in increments of 10% to 50%. The standout mixture—a combination of 10% brick powder and 40% fly ash—demonstrated remarkable improvements: a 64.81% increase in compressive strength, a 17.78% rise in split tensile strength, and an impressive 48% enhancement in workability. Additionally, the ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) improved by 33.15%, achieving a velocity of 4.9 km/s, while the rebound index increased by 32.05%.
These findings suggest a significant correlation among the mechanical properties, indicating that the right mix can yield concrete that is not only strong but also highly workable. “Our results clearly indicate that sustainable concrete can perform at par or even exceed traditional mixtures,” Saloua notes, emphasizing the potential for wider adoption in the industry.
The implications of this research extend beyond environmental benefits; they suggest a shift in how construction firms approach material sourcing and project design. By utilizing locally available recycled materials, companies can reduce costs and enhance their sustainability credentials, appealing to a growing market of environmentally conscious consumers and stakeholders.
As the construction sector continues to evolve, the integration of sustainable practices will likely become a key differentiator in project bidding and execution. Saloua’s findings provide a roadmap for future developments in concrete technology, encouraging the industry to rethink its reliance on conventional materials.
For more insights into this groundbreaking research, you can visit the lead_author_affiliation. The study not only sets a precedent for future research but also encourages a broader conversation about the role of sustainability in construction, paving the way for innovations that benefit both the environment and the economy.