ENHANCING CONCRETE STRENGTH WITH RECYCLED CERAMIC TILES AND DENTAL ADMIXTURES

Abstract

This study explores for the first time the utilization of combined use of ceramic tile aggregate and dental cast stones in the concrete production process. Ceramic tiles, sourced from manufacturing industries as well as construction and demolition sites—sources contributing to environmental pollution—were employed, along with waste dental cast stones obtained from hospitals in Metro Manila. The integration of crushed tiles as a replacement for coarse aggregate in concrete not only addresses environmental concerns but also holds promising economic benefits. Consequently, the incorporation of these ceramic wastes into concrete production emerges as a viable strategy for environmental preservation while simultaneously enhancing the concrete's properties particularly compressive strength. In the experimentation phase, crushed ceramic tile serves as 100% substitute for coarse aggregate while the dental cast stones serve as additive at varying percentages (1%, 3%, and 6%). The concrete mixtures, adhering to M20 grade standards, were meticulously prepared and subjected to casting, followed by thorough testing for Compressive Strength after curing period of 28 days. The obtained results reveal that excellent compressive strength is achieved with the replacement of ceramic tile aggregate in conjunction with natural coarse aggregate and pulverized dental cast stones as natural additive. In Addition, the obtained result of adding 1% waste additive material yields an average increase of 0.64% higher than the standard mix (controlled). The mixture with 3% waste additive material yields an average increase of 13.06% and while adding 6% waste additive material yields an average increase of 30.07% in comparison to conventional concrete with both respective curing period of 7, 14, 28 days. This insightful exploration underscores the potential of sustainable practices in concrete production for environmental benefits.