Limestone dust and glass powder wastes as new brick material

Abstract

Large amounts of glass and limestone wastes are accumulating all over the world. Disposal of Limestone Powder Waste (LPW) and Waste Glass Powder (WGP) is a rapidly growing problem for some municipalities, so research for alternative utilization of these disposals is needed. In this respect, the objectives of this study are to investigate both physical and mechanical properties of samples containing LPW-WGP combinations for producing as new building brick material. An experimental approach to develop a new brick material including mainly LPW, a small quantity of Portland cement and WGP is presented. The LPW, WGP and cement are mixed, humidified and compacted under high pressure in the moulds. The values of compressive strength, flexural strength, unit weight, water absorption, abrasion resistance, freezing-thawing (F-T) resistance and thermal conductivity satisfy the relevant international standards and introduces smoother surface compared to the current concrete bricks in the market. The process undertaken can easily be applied within the current brick plants. The WGP used in LPW remarkably improves the compressive strength, flexural strength, modulus of elasticity, abrasion resistance, F-T resistance, and thermal conductivity of LPW brick samples produced in this study. The test results indicate that the samples containing LPW-WGP combinations provide better results for a potential of producing economical new brick materials. © 2007 RILEM has copyright.