Crushed Bricks as a Sustainable Aggregates Solution for Concrete Production

Selda Ayhan^*
*Correspondence: Selda Ayhan, Department of Civil Engineering, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa 16059, Turkey, Email:

Introduction

Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials globally, prized for its strength, durability and versatility. However, the extraction of natural aggregates sand, gravel and crushed stone used in concrete production is a major contributor to environmental degradation. The increasing demand for concrete has placed significant pressure on natural resources, resulting in habitat destruction, soil erosion and carbon emissions from mining operations. To mitigate these environmental impacts, the construction industry is turning to alternative materials and one such promising option is the use of crushed bricks. Crushed bricks, typically sourced from demolished brick structures, offer a sustainable solution by reducing the need for traditional aggregates, minimizing construction waste and lowering the environmental footprint of concrete production. This paper explores the potential of crushed bricks as a sustainable aggregate solution for concrete, examining their benefits, challenges and applications in modern construction [1].

Description

The use of traditional aggregates in concrete production poses significant environmental challenges, such as resource depletion and carbon emissions from mining and transportation. As a result, the construction industry is exploring alternatives and crushed bricks have emerged as a viable option. Crushed bricks are obtained by recycling bricks from demolished buildings and their use in concrete helps reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills. This not only conserves natural resources but also contributes to a more circular economy. Moreover, the energy required to process crushed bricks is generally lower compared to extracting and transporting natural aggregates, leading to reduced carbon emissions associated with concrete production [2].

Crushed bricks also offer several beneficial physical and mechanical properties that make them suitable for use in concrete. While the irregular and angular shape of crushed bricks can improve the interlocking of particles and enhance the strength of concrete, they may also affect the workability of the mix. Since crushed bricks tend to have a lower specific gravity compared to natural aggregates, the density and weight of concrete may be reduced, but this could be advantageous in some applications, such as lightweight concrete. Additionally, crushed bricks have demonstrated durability under various environmental conditions, making them suitable for a wide range of construction projects [3].

In terms of applications, crushed bricks can be used in both structural and non-structural concrete. In non-structural applications such as pavements, sidewalks and low-strength concrete, crushed bricks serve as an environmentally friendly alternative without compromising the overall strength of the concrete. For structural concrete, crushed bricks can be used in combination with other sustainable materials, such as recycled concrete aggregates or supplementary cementitious materials, to maintain the required strength and performance. Furthermore, crushed bricks can be utilized in lightweight concrete products, providing a cost-effective and sustainable solution for construction [4].

Despite the advantages of using crushed bricks in concrete, challenges remain. One of the primary challenges is ensuring consistent quality and performance, as the composition of crushed bricks can vary depending on the source. Contaminants, such as mortar residue, can also affect the bonding between aggregates and the cement paste, potentially compromising the strength of the concrete. Additionally, there is a need for updated building codes and standards that consider the use of crushed bricks in concrete mixes, which will require extensive research and collaboration between industry professionals, regulators and researchers [5].

Conclsuion

Crushed bricks represent a sustainable and promising alternative to traditional aggregates in concrete production. By repurposing construction and demolition waste, crushed bricks help reduce landfill waste, conserve natural resources and lower carbon emissions associated with concrete manufacturing. While there are challenges, such as variability in quality and the presence of contaminants, the benefits of using crushed bricks in concrete far outweigh these drawbacks. With proper research, technological innovation and regulatory support, crushed bricks can be successfully integrated into concrete mixes for a wide range of construction applications, from pavements to structural concrete. The use of crushed bricks in concrete not only supports environmental sustainability but also contributes to the development of more resilient and cost-effective buildings. Ultimately, the continued adoption of crushed bricks in the construction industry will be a critical step toward a more sustainable future, promoting a circular economy and reducing the environmental footprint of construction.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

 None.

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