Assessing Fresh Concrete Performance and Water Absorption Characteristics of Concrete with Partially Replaced Broken Tiles

Abstract

A number of research seeking alternative materials to augment normal coarse aggregate to reduce overreliance on granite while saving the environment is on the rise.  This study assessed the workability, water absorption and density of concrete with waste ceramic tiles as partial replacement for crushed granite coarse aggregate. Crushed waste ceramic tiles from ceramic manufacturing industries and construction sites were blended with crushed granite for concrete production. A mix ratio 1: 1.11: 2.72 (cement: sand: coarse) for nominal C30 concrete was produced with (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 100) percent volume ceramic waste replacement for crushed granite at constant water-cement ratio of 0.5 to produce concrete cubes and cured for 7 and 28 days. Tests conducted revealed concrete workability and density decreased with increasing ceramic waste while water absorption increased with increasing ceramic waste but not above acceptable limits. However, use of waste ceramic tiles as partial replacement for crushed granite in concrete is encouraged, but not exceeding 20% maximum for structural concrete. This mode of recycling ceramic waste could positively promote green construction for sustained environment; hence, it should be encouraged with conditional limitation and further research of its use.