A Study on the Inclusion of Waste Ceramics as a Partial Substitute of Cement in Sustainable Concrete

Abstract

The fast development of the world population and social progress are stressing natural resources and increasing industrial solid waste creation. It is critical to emphasize that construction and demolition (C&D) wastes including materials from construction, refurbishment, and destruction of buildings and infrastructures contribute considerably to global trash generation. Ceramic materials constitute a considerable proportion of C&D waste, including tiles, bricks, sanitary waste, and ornamental ceramics. Ceramic waste disposal in landfills is a frequent practice due to various circumstances, including a lack of standards, a desire to minimize dangers, and a lack of knowledge and expertise. A lot of solid waste can be turned into other resources. This can have a significant positive effect on many aspects of sustainability and environmental sustainability. Concrete being a composite material consisting of multiple components, including cement, sand, gravel, and water, each with its own set of qualities and purposes. Cement is an expensive and resource-intensive component in concrete manufacturing. Cement manufacture releases a significant quantity of CO₂. Alternatively, the manufacturing process of ceramics creates extensive by-products (ceramic waste). In the contemporary period, there has been a significant surge in interest in incorporating waste ceramic as a pozzolanic material in concrete, especially as a substitute of cement. This is because it facilitates the environment by reducing the amount of cement used and making the construction industry more environmentally friendly. Bangladesh, an emerging South Asian country, is experiencing significant urbanization due to its expanding economy and industrialization, providing opportunities and problems, particularly in the housing and infrastructure sectors. This review study demonstrates the potential of incorporating waste ceramic into concrete as a partial cement substitute, offering the prospect of enhancing the physical, mechanical, chemical, and long-lasting properties of concrete. Furthermore, using ceramic waste in the building sector can deliver several advantages, including cost savings and improved environmental sustainability.