Utilization Oil Based Industrial Sludge as Potential Construction Components

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the potential of using Wastewater Treatment sludge (WWTs) from oil-based industry as a target material for sustainable construction component. Intensive laboratory investigations were carried out to establish the best mix design for brick composition. WWTs were blended with Laterite Clay (LC) at 50:50 ratio to produce unfired bricks. These target material were stabilised using Hydrated Lime (HL), Portland cement (PC) on its own and combination of Ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS), waste from metal industry, HL: GGBS and PC: GGBS both (50:50 and 70:30 ratio) at 10%, 20% and 30% stabilizer dosage. The influence of the waste addition on the compressive strength and water absorption test was investigated on brick specimens. The unfired brick were fabricated in the factory environment. The bricks that casted were wrapped in cling film and air cured for 7 and 28 days before testing. The results obtained show that the measured strength properties and water absorption of the stabilized WWTs are comparable to conventional bricks. The results suggest there is a potential of using sludge from oil based industry in view of economic and environmental concern.