In the heart of Shenzhen, China, researchers at the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Durability for Marine Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University, are turning heads with a novel approach to sustainable construction. Led by Muhammad Atasham ul Haq, a team of scientists has discovered a way to enhance the properties of recycled brick aggregates (RBAs) using agricultural waste, potentially revolutionizing the concrete industry.
RBAs, a significant component of construction and demolition waste (CDW), have long been overlooked due to their high porosity, weak mortar adhesion, and low strength. However, Haq and his team have found a solution that not only improves these properties but also valorizes agricultural waste, promoting a circular economy.
The team formulated three types of pozzolanic slurries using sugarcane bagasse ash, rice husk ash, and corn cob ash, each combined with cement. These slurries were then applied to RBAs at varying water-to-binder ratios. The results were impressive. “We saw a significant reduction in water absorption and a notable increase in particle density, crushing resistance, and abrasion resistance,” Haq explains. The most effective treatment was the rice husk ash-cement slurry with a water-to-binder ratio of 2.
The implications for the construction industry are substantial. Concrete prepared with these treated RBAs showed superior mechanical and durability performance compared to untreated RBA concrete. Moreover, the cost and CO₂ emissions were comparable to conventional concrete, making this a viable and sustainable alternative.
The research, published in “Case Studies in Construction Materials” (translated as “典型案例集” in Chinese), opens up new possibilities for the energy sector as well. As the world shifts towards greener practices, the demand for sustainable construction materials is on the rise. This innovative approach could help meet that demand, reducing the environmental impact of construction projects and contributing to a more sustainable future.
The study also highlights the potential of agricultural waste, often seen as a nuisance, as a valuable resource. By turning waste into a useful material, this research could inspire similar initiatives in other industries, promoting a more circular and sustainable economy.
As Haq puts it, “This is not just about improving the properties of recycled brick aggregates. It’s about rethinking our approach to waste and resources, and creating a more sustainable future for all.” With this research, he and his team have taken a significant step in that direction, paving the way for more innovative and sustainable solutions in the construction industry.