Evaluation of the toxicity of pervious concretes with WFS through germination tests with Eruca sativa (arugula) and Triticum aestivum (wheat) seeds

Abstract

Concrete is the most used construction material, which results in harmful impacts on the environment due to the consumption of natural resources. Hence the need to use alternative materials, e.g., waste from the construction sector and even from other production sectors. This context includes the development of concrete with sustainable functionality, such as pervious concrete with the incorporation of waste foundry sand (WFS), a waste generated by the foundry sector. However, there is a scientific gap focusing on the environmental viability of pervious concretes. In this sense, this study aims to evaluate the toxicity of pevious concretes with WFS, through germination tests with Eruca sativa (arugula) and Triticum aestivum (wheat) seeds. The statistical analysis of the results showed that there was no significant harmful effect from the incorporation of WFS on the germination rate for both seeds used. Regarding root growth, it was observed that WFS II concrete (>% Portland cement) had a lower impact on arugula seeds (more sensitive). Therefore, the pervious concrete with WFS developed was found to be safe in relation to phytotoxicity.