Experimental study of the mechanical properties of burnt clay bricks incorporated with plastic and steel waste materials
M Ebadi-Jamkhaneh, Masoud Ahmadi, D-P N Kontoni
Abstract
Abstract Traditional masonry bricks are made of clay burnt under high temperatures, resulting in high energy consumption, environmental contaminations and decreased natural raw materials. In order to limit nature risks, inorganic materials have been used to make brick. Four types of materials, including fine and coarse plastic, cast iron, and iron swarf, have been used to make bricks. A total number of 64 specimens were made and tested. The tests results were presented in the form of compressive strength, rupture module, water absorption percentage, and initial water absorption ratio. The result showed that using cast iron powder caused the maximum compressive strength amongst all the samples, and was 46% larger than for the reference bricks. On the other hand, the maximum initial water absorption occurred within the first three hours, while the maximum rate was associated to samples with higher coarse plastic contents.