Utilization of Ceramic Waste Material as Cement Substitution in Concrete

Abstract

Researchers and engineers have been exploring alternative materials to partially substitute for cement in concrete to decrease carbon emissions and promote sustainability. Industrial pozzolanic waste is one such material that has gained attention as a potential substitute for cement. This research paper investigates the use of industrial pozzolanic waste materials, ceramic fine dust from the cyclones installed onto spray dryers in the process of manufacturing ceramic tiles, as a partial replacement for cement in concrete. Chemical analysis showed that ceramic dust could be used as pozzolana as ASTM C 618:2019. The study aims to evaluate the properties of fresh and hardened concrete; compressive strength; tensile splitting; and flexural strength of concrete mixtures. Additionally, specimens were subjected to durability performance: an acidic environment and water absorption tests. The cement was replaced in the concrete mix in proportions of 0, 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, and 30% by weight with a water-to-binder ratio of 0.45 at different curing periods. The results showed an increase in compressive strength of up to 10% replacement over time; fortunately, even with up to 30% replacement, it is still within the characteristic value of 30 MPa. The workability of the concrete decreases with replacement. The flexural tensile strength improved by 8% and the splitting strength by 5% with a replacement of 7% set against the control sample. The water absorption of concrete decreased by up to 10% replacement level, which was 15% less than that of the control mix. Concrete subjected to a 2% sulfuric acid solution (acid attack) revealed a loss in compressive strength when set against those not subjected to acid attacks. Based on the present research, ceramic dust as pozzolanic waste material can be used as a partial substitute for cement in the manufacture of good quality concrete under standard conditions.