Evaluating the Use of Recycled Brick Powder as a Partial Replacement for Portland Cement in Concrete

Abstract

Portland cement is one of the most used construction materials. However, its production represents between 5 and 7% of the total CO2 emissions. On the other hand, during construction and demolition activities, different wastes are produced, including recycled brick powder (RBP), whose potential as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) has been demonstrated in the literature. This research aims to evaluate RBP as a partial replacement for Portland cement in concrete. 5 to 10% of Portland cement was replaced with RBP in two strength designs (20 and 25 MPa) in order to propose concretes that meet the requirements for use in construction. Tests involving slump, compressive strength, tensile strength by diametrical compression, absorption, density, and void content were performed. The results show that a 5% RBP replacement does not affect workability in concrete mixes, as it maintains their mechanical resistance and slightly improves their physical properties. On the other hand, 10% RBP replacements adversely affect workability and reduce tensile strength. These results are attributed to pozzolanic activity and the physical effect caused by RBP, whose performance may be improved by reducing RBP particles and increasing their specific surface area (SSA). Using RBP as a replacement for Portland cement to produce concrete is a viable alternative with a sustainable approach.